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Quick update on P-EBT rules for 2025: If you determine this was truly an error and not benefits expiring, you can also file a formal "fair hearing request" if the regular customer service route doesn't work. You have 90 days from the date of the adjustment to request this hearing. While waiting for the hearing, also contact your local legal aid office - many have special units that handle EBT and P-EBT issues at no cost. The California Department of Social Services has a special P-EBT helpline at 877-328-9677 that's separate from the regular EBT customer service line and sometimes more helpful for these specific issues.
UPDATE: I finally got through to someone! Apparently they did an "account reconciliation" and found that they had issued an extra payment back in January that I wasn't eligible for. The frustrating part is they never notified me before taking the money back. The representative said I should have received a Notice of Action but admitted they've been having problems with their mailing system. They're supposed to send notices 10 days before taking any action! They said I can request a fair hearing to dispute it, but since it was technically an overpayment, they probably won't return the money. I'm still going to try because I budgeted based on what was showing on my card. This is so frustrating!
That's EXACTLY what they told me too! But they're required by law to notify before taking money back. Definitely request that fair hearing! I wish I had. Let us know what happens.
You absolutely should request the fair hearing. The law requires proper notice before recoupment actions. Since you didn't receive the required notice, you have solid grounds for at least delaying the recoupment until proper procedures are followed. Make sure to emphasize the lack of notice in your hearing request - that's your strongest argument.
UPDATE: I finally got through to my county office today. I had to provide my case number, the last 4 digits of my Social, and details about all the fraudulent transactions. They mailed me the EBT-2259 form (why can't they email these things??) and said once I return it, they'll process my claim. They also said I should check with local food banks while I wait for the replacement benefits. Feeling a little better but still stressed about the timeline. Already had to borrow $40 from my sister for basic groceries. At least I know there's a process to get the benefits back. Thanks everyone for your help and advice! I'll update again when I (hopefully) get my benefits replaced.
Glad you got through! One suggestion - when you receive the form, take photos of it before sending it back, and if possible, send it with delivery confirmation. Documentation is everything with these claims. Also, don't forget to note on your calendar when the 10 business days are up so you can follow up if needed. Wishing you the best of luck with this!
I had my CalFresh stolen twice last year! The second time, I specifically asked for expedited replacement due to hardship (I have two kids) and they processed it in 5 business days instead of 10. Might be worth asking about when you submit your form, especially if you're really struggling without the benefits.
That's incredibly helpful to know! I'll definitely ask about expedited replacement. Did you have to provide any extra documentation to prove hardship, or was just explaining your situation enough?
I just remembered something!!! When you call make sure you choose option 2 then 1 then 4 in their stupid phone tree. That's the fastest way to get to someone who handles EBT issues. At least it was back in January when I was dealing with my theft claim. The whole system is RIDICULOUS!!! Why don't they just have a direct line for theft claims when so many people are getting their benefits stolen???!!
One thing no one's mentioned yet is that if your claim has been pending more than 30 days, you can request an expedited review. My neighbor had success by specifically saying "I'm requesting an expedited review under MPP regulation 16-705.32" which requires them to make a determination within 3 business days. You have to be persistent though.
if u got regular calfresh too maybe the ppl answering here are confused what ur asking about lol... p-ebt is different
For anyone else landing on this thread: There's been a scheduled system update for P-EBT in February 2025 that's caused some benefit loading delays. According to the CDSS website, benefits that were scheduled for the first week of February may be delayed by 3-5 business days. This might explain why the text notification went out but the benefits aren't showing up yet. Once you do get the P-EBT card, remember to activate it immediately by calling the number on the back and setting a PIN. The benefits should be available immediately after activation. For online shopping, you'll need the 16-digit card number, expiration date, and security code, just like a regular debit card.
Diego Vargas
my neighbor got hers early on the 23rd so idk maybe its different for each person?? the whole system is so confusing
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Anastasia Fedorov
•Your neighbor might be getting CalWORKs benefits, not CalFresh. CalWORKs cash aid often comes earlier in the month. They're different programs even though they're both accessed through the same EBT card.
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StarStrider
I just confirmed with my county office - the transition supplement will be issued on the 26th for all case numbers except those ending in 1-3 (which was yesterday, the 25th). The amount is based on a percentage of your regular benefit, so it varies by household. They also mentioned that if you don't see it by the 27th, you should contact your worker because some cases weren't eligible for the final supplement if they had recent income increases or household changes.
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Chloe Anderson
•This is exactly what I needed to know! Thank you so much for checking. I'll look for it on the 26th then. My case hasn't had any changes so hopefully we'll get something.
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