dont forget the extra payment wont count toward your income limit or IRT! my cousin panicked thinking she had to report it on her SAR7 but its a one-time benefit so it doesnt count as income

Thanks everyone for the helpful info! I checked my EBT account this morning (June 18th) and the extra $250 was loaded! The transaction shows as "CA INFLATION RELIEF PYMT" just like someone mentioned. This will help so much with my grocery budget this month. Really appreciate all the clarification about when to expect it and how it works!

If you're really struggling without the extra allotments, make sure you report ALL your expenses on your SAR7 and recertification. A lot of people don't know they can deduct childcare costs, excess medical costs (for elderly/disabled household members), and a homeless shelter deduction if applicable. Also, if your income dropped, report it right away - don't wait for your next SAR7. You might qualify for more regular benefits that way.

just want to add that you should check your EBT card balance regularly using the app or calling the number on the back of your card. sometimes they load benefits without any notification. and ya the pandemic extra benefits are over - my family really misses those too. made a huge difference for us.

btw did u ever get a letter saying ur benefits were being reduced or anything? sometimes they adjust ur amount and dont tell u clearly

Good news - I just checked the latest CalFresh policy bulletin, and there's actually a special process for the 4.0 card transition issues. Since this was a statewide card replacement program, they're supposed to have special protocols for handling benefit transfer problems. When you call, specifically mention it's related to the "EBT 4.0 Card Migration" and ask if there's a specialized team handling those issues. This might get you to the right person faster.

This system is DESIGNED to fail us. They make everything so complicated that people give up. I had benefits stolen TWICE last year and the second time they accused ME of fraud for a while! Meanwhile my kids were hungry and we almost got evicted too. The whole "wait patiently" thing is BS when rent is due and kids need to eat. The county workers sit comfortably in their offices while we struggle. I'm so angry for you.

Following up on my earlier comment - I want to add a critical detail about eviction prevention. When you go to request the Homeless Assistance payment, make sure to specifically ask for the "Permanent Housing Assistance" option, not just temporary. This can provide: - Up to two months of back rent ($3,000 maximum) - Security deposit coverage for new housing if needed - Utility deposit assistance You need to bring: - Your eviction notice - Rental agreement - Proof of the CalWORKs theft report - Statement from landlord of exact amount owed One final tip: If the county office is slow-walking your theft claim, immediately ask to speak with a supervisor and use the phrase "expedited fair hearing request" - this triggers a faster review process under California Department of Social Services regulations.

I thought P-EBT was done after the pandemic?? We haven't received anything on my kids cards for months and I assumed the program ended. Now I'm confused about whether we should be getting something or not. They're at a school where everyone gets free lunch.

UPDATE: I called the P-EBT hotline (took forever to get through) and they confirmed what you all said. The $175 is a combined payment for the first quarter of the school year, and the next payment won't come until December. The representative said they sent notices about this change in July but many people didn't receive them due to a mailing error. Thanks everyone for your help!