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btw those two November deposits are probably for different things - like one might be the base benefit and the other could be a supplement. P-EBT is super confusing that way. My daughter's card had some weird split payments too.
After seeing all these responses, I want to clarify something important: P-EBT is NOT the same program as CalFresh, although both use EBT cards. P-EBT is specifically for school-aged children to replace school meals during eligible periods. The current 2025-2026 P-EBT program issues benefits quarterly, not monthly. The payments you received are likely just the first installment, with more scheduled for February and May 2026. If you need definitive answers, I recommend: 1. Check the P-EBT portal at ca.p-ebt.org and create an account if you haven't 2. Contact your child's school nutrition services department 3. Call the P-EBT hotline at 877-328-9677 (though getting through can be difficult) You can also contact your county CalFresh office, but be aware that some county workers aren't fully trained on P-EBT details since it's administered separately from regular CalFresh benefits.
When I got my notice about the increase I thought it was a scam at first lol. But then I got my increased amount last week no problem. Maybe it depends on which county you're in? I'm in Alameda.
UPDATE: I checked my BenefitsCal messages and there was a notice about the wildfire emergency allotment! It was dated yesterday even though the money came in last night. Says it's a one-time payment for households in the affected areas. So looks like we're good to use it! Thanks everyone for your help figuring this out.
I called my caseworker and finally got through! She confirmed it's disaster assistance and is 100% ours to keep. NOT an error. Anyone in the affected zip codes should have gotten it automatically. If you didn't get it but think you should have, you need to call and request it specifically - mention "wildfire emergency allotment" and they'll check your eligibility. So relieved!
UPDATE: The supplement posted this morning! It was actually more than I expected - $387 for adding my nephew to the household mid-month. So relieved. Thanks everyone for your help!
For anyone finding this thread later: Supplemental payments for household adjustments typically post on whatever date the eligibility worker enters into the system. They don't show as pending in advance, and won't follow your regular issuance date. If you're expecting a supplement and it doesn't arrive when promised, contact your county office immediately as there may have been an entry error or processing delay.
Paolo Conti
The $95 minimum emergency allotment ended last year BUT some counties are still doing adjustments and retroactive payments for periods when the allotments were active. My sister just got a retro payment last month for a period when she was underpaid during 2022. Maybe that's what your worker was referring to?
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Miguel Ortiz
•That makes sense! I did have an issue with my benefits calculation back in November when I started a new job. Maybe she was talking about a correction for that period. I really hope that's the case.
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Connor Murphy
After reading through all the comments, it sounds like your caseworker might have been referring to a retroactive adjustment rather than a current emergency allotment. I'd suggest: 1. Using the Claimyr service mentioned to get through to a live person 2. Asking specifically about any "pending adjustments" or "benefit corrections" on your case 3. Request they check if there are any supplements scheduled to be issued 4. If there was a miscommunication, ask about emergency food resources in your area that could help this month Also, with your rent increase, you should report that change as it might qualify you for increased regular benefits going forward.
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Miguel Ortiz
•Thank you SO much for this detailed advice! I used Claimyr and finally got through to my county worker. You were right - she was referring to a retroactive correction for November-December when they calculated my benefits wrong after my job change. She said it's still being processed and should arrive within 10 days. I also reported my rent increase and they'll recalculate my regular benefits. What a relief to finally get answers!
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