UPDATE: Problem solved! I used that Claimyr service someone suggested above and actually got through to my county worker in about 30 minutes (after trying for 2 days on my own). Turns out there WAS a fraud alert on my account because I tried using my card at a new location. The worker removed the block right away and I was able to withdraw cash at the ATM immediately after. Thank you all for your help and suggestions!

So glad you got this resolved! This is exactly why I always recommend keeping a backup plan for these situations. EBT system glitches happen way too often, especially around the beginning of the month when everyone's trying to access their benefits. For anyone else reading this who might face similar issues in the future - it's also worth knowing that some counties have emergency food assistance programs that can help bridge the gap while you're waiting for card issues to get resolved. And if you have kids, don't forget about local food banks and school meal programs that don't require your EBT card to work. Thanks for updating us with the solution - this thread will definitely help other people who run into the same problem!

Been through this exact situation so many times! I'm on the 8th too and honestly it's about 70/30 - works at midnight 70% of the time but sometimes you gotta wait till like 1-2am. What I started doing is calling that EBT number (1-877-328-9677) right at midnight to check if it actually processed before I leave the house. Super quick automated system that tells you your real balance, not just the pending stuff. Also pro tip - if you do go out, Safeway and Target seem to have their systems sync faster than other places in my experience. And if you're really stuck tonight, most food pantries have emergency contact numbers you can call - I had to use one once when my benefits got delayed 2 days and they hooked me up same night. Just search "[your city] emergency food assistance" and you'll usually find some options. Hope it works out for you and the kids tonight!

Just wanted to add my experience since I see a lot of mixed info here. I've been on CalFresh for about 8 months now (benefits load on the 20th) and I've found that timing really depends on your county's processing system. In my county (San Bernardino), I've had the best luck going to 24-hour grocery stores around 12:30am rather than right at midnight - seems like there's usually a brief processing window. One thing that's helped me a lot is having a backup plan ready. I keep a list on my phone of all the 24-hour stores in my area along with their addresses, so if one location isn't working I can quickly try another without wasting gas driving around aimlessly. Also learned the hard way to always bring my ID with me - some stores require it for EBT transactions late at night for security reasons. If you're really in a tight spot with feeding the kids tonight, don't forget about WIC emergency services if you qualify, or calling 211 for immediate food assistance resources in your area. Sometimes they can connect you with churches or community groups that do late-night food distribution. Good luck tonight!

Just wanted to add that you can also check your exact benefit deposit date by logging into your BenefitsCal account online or calling the EBT customer service line at 1-877-328-9677. They'll tell you your specific issuance date based on your case number without having to wait on hold for the county office. The automated system is usually pretty quick and accurate for basic info like deposit dates!

Just to pile on with everyone else's advice - December 18th is definitely wrong! I've been on CalFresh for 3 years and the dates have NEVER changed for holidays. My case number ends in 8 so I always get mine on the 8th of every month, including December. The county would send official notices weeks in advance if they were changing anything that major. Stick with your normal schedule and don't let random grocery store conversations mess with your budget planning!

did u try calling the county yet? I know its frustrating but u really need to talk to ur worker to get this fixed. Sometimes the EBT customer service number can transfer u directly to a caseworker if u tell them its urgent!

Just wanted to add that you should also check if your county has any local CalFresh offices that might be easier to reach than the main number. Some counties have satellite offices or community partners where you can drop off documents in person. Also, when you do get through to report the utility allowance, ask them to backdate it to when you first started paying utilities separately - sometimes they can adjust your benefits retroactively for a few months if you can prove you were eligible earlier. Good luck getting through, and don't give up! The extra benefits will be worth the hassle of dealing with the phone system.

There's also the Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA) program if your income is slightly higher than CARE limits. And don't forget to ask PG&E about their payment plans - they HAVE to offer you one if you're struggling. I work for a community organization that helps with these applications, and most people don't realize they qualify for multiple programs. The system is deliberately confusing to prevent people from accessing all the benefits they're entitled to.

Also wanted to mention that if you're in a real emergency situation (like about to get shut off), many counties have emergency assistance programs that can help within 24-48 hours. These are different from LIHEAP and usually have less paperwork. When you call your county office, specifically ask about "emergency utility assistance" or "crisis intervention" programs. They don't always volunteer this information but it exists! I had to use it once when my gas was going to be shut off in winter and they helped me the same day I applied.