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.

@OP - to answer your question about the cards, they're using the same P-EBT cards as before for returning students. If you still have your daughter's card from 2021, keep it! They should reload that one. If you lost it, you'll need to request a replacement through the P-EBT Portal or by calling the helpline. Just know they're VERY slow at sending replacements - could take 6-8 weeks.

If you've lost your P-EBT card, you can request a replacement. Here's what to do: 1. Call the P-EBT Helpline at 877-328-9677 (be prepared for long wait times) 2. Or go to the P-EBT Portal at ca.p-ebt.org and report the card lost 3. The system will deactivate the old card and send a new one 4. The new card will have all available benefits loaded You won't lose eligibility just because you lost the card. The replacement process is frustrating but your child's benefits will be preserved.

I had the same worry but got my kids' cards last week! Don't stress too much about it. The P-EBT rollout has been a mess since they started it during COVID. Different counties are on different schedules, and even within counties it seems random. As long as your kids were on CalFresh during the eligible months and are under 6, you'll get it eventually. The system is just SLOW.

the amounts on the cards are different based on how many months ur kid was eligible btw. my 4yo got $1240 but my 1yo only got $630 cuz we added her to our case later

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.

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.

I think everyone is confusing the OP with misinformation! P-EBT is absolutely available for children under school age if they attend daycare or Head Start programs that participate in federal meal programs. My 3yr old got P-EBT last year through his daycare. But you need to check if your specific childcare provider participates in the federal food program.

Thanks everyone for all your help! I'm going to apply for WIC today and follow up on my CalFresh application if I don't hear back by the end of the week. I'll try that Claimyr service if I keep having trouble getting through on the phone. It's so confusing navigating all these different programs as a new mom, and I really appreciate all the advice!