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To update your information, you have three options: 1. Online through BenefitsCal.com (easiest method) 2. Call your county office (can be time-consuming) 3. Visit your local county office in person Reporting utilities is important because CalFresh uses the Standard Utility Allowance (SUA) of $524 in California for 2025 if you pay heating or cooling costs. This deduction can significantly increase your benefits because it reduces your countable income. You don't need to wait for your next SAR7 or recertification to report this - it's considered a change that could increase benefits, so you can report it anytime.
The whole CalFresh system is SO CONFUSING with all these rules and forms!!! I've been on it for 2 years and STILL don't understand half of what they send me. I just know my benefits come on the 6th and I pray they don't randomly cut me off for some paperwork I didn't know I was supposed to fill out. The county workers act like we're supposed to be experts on all this stuff!
You're right that the system can be confusing. The most important forms to keep track of are: 1. SAR7 (Semi-Annual Report) - Due every 6 months 2. Recertification - Due once per year Missing either of these will result in discontinued benefits. Setting calendar reminders for these two forms can help prevent unexpected benefit loss.
Update on my situation - I finally got my benefits back! I ended up using that Claimyr service to reach someone at the county, and then I specifically asked for a supervisor review of my case and mentioned \
I understand the concern, but I should mention that this approach isn't recommended for CalFresh/SNAP benefits. Unlike cash benefits, CalFresh cannot be withdrawn as cash - it can only be used to purchase eligible food items directly. Also, keeping cash at home comes with its own security risks. Using the card as intended but with proper security measures (monthly PIN changes, using at reputable retailers) offers the best balance of security and proper benefit usage.
For everyone in this thread, here's important information about protecting your remaining and future benefits: 1. Change your PIN immediately and use a non-obvious number (not birthdays, sequential numbers, etc.) 2. Check your EBT account regularly for suspicious activity 3. Never share your PIN or card information with anyone 4. Be careful about where you use your card - avoid sketchy ATMs or card readers that look unusual 5. Consider checking for skimmers before using your card (wiggle the card reader) 6. If possible, use your EBT card at major retailers rather than smaller stores Also, there's a bill currently in committee (AB-508) that would enhance fraud protections for EBT users. Consider contacting your representatives to support stronger protections.
Based on what I've heard, this appears to affect both CalFresh food benefits and CalWORKs cash benefits on EBT cards. The policies for both programs regarding electronic theft are generally aligned. I recommend taking extra precautions with your cash benefits - perhaps withdrawing them as soon as they're deposited rather than keeping them on the card.
Avery Davis
I hope you get your benefits back quickly! My card was skimmed at a grocery store last year and it was so stressful. I ended up having to go to a food bank while waiting for the replacement. If you need emergency food, call 211 - they can connect you with resources while you wait for the reimbursement.
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Dyllan Nantx
•Thank you so much for the food bank suggestion. I've never been to one before but might need to check it out if this takes the full 10 days. Do they usually require any documentation of need?
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Avery Davis
•Most food banks don't require documentation - just show up during their distribution hours. Some might ask for ID just to track unique visitors, but they generally don't turn anyone away. The 211 helpline can tell you exact hours and locations closest to you.
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Dyllan Nantx
UPDATE: I called the EBT customer service line this morning and explained my situation. They transferred me to a theft specialist who said they could expedite my case since I have children in the household. She said I should see the funds back in my account within 3-5 business days instead of 10! I also went ahead and filed a police report online just to have it documented. Thank you all for your helpful advice - I'll update again when I get my benefits back!
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Nadia Zaldivar
•That's great news! Filing the police report was a smart move - it creates an official record that can help if there are any issues with your claim. Make sure to save the police report number in case the EBT office asks for it later.
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Jungleboo Soletrain
•SEE!!! This is exactly what I mean - you have to PUSH THEM or nothing happens!!! So glad you found someone who actually helped instead of just giving you the runaround!!! Please update us when you get your benefits back!!!
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