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has anyone been told they need to update their kids' immigration status or something? the person i talked to mentioned something about needing citizenship verification now but my kids were born here?? so confused
No, that's incorrect information. P-EBT eligibility has nothing to do with immigration or citizenship status. It's based solely on the child's enrollment in a school that participates in free/reduced lunch programs and household income eligibility. Whoever told you that was mistaken. I'd suggest calling again and speaking with a different representative.
Just wanted to follow up - were you able to resolve this issue? I'm curious what eventually worked since several families in my community are facing the same problem with the P-EBT system not recognizing children who received previous benefits.
Yes! It took about 3 weeks, but we finally got it resolved. The issue was exactly what you suggested - her name was spelled slightly differently in the school system vs. CalFresh records. I had to submit a Case Review Request through our county worker, and I provided copies of her previous P-EBT cards as proof she had received benefits before. Her new card arrived yesterday with all the backpay included. So relieved! Thanks again for your help.
One other critical tip: While waiting for your replacement benefits, make sure to freeze your EBT card through the EBT app or by calling the number on the back. Then request a new physical card with a different card number. Many people get their benefits replaced only to have them stolen again immediately because the thieves still have access to their card information.
I did freeze the card right away, but I wasn't sure about getting a replacement card with a new number. I'll definitely do that - thank you! Do you know if the replacement benefits go onto the new card automatically?
Yes, any replacement benefits will automatically be loaded to your new card once it's activated. When you get the new card, make sure to create a unique PIN that you don't use anywhere else. Also, it's now recommended to change your EBT PIN monthly as an extra security measure. Glad you froze the card already - that was a smart first step.
To follow up on the medical expense deduction we discussed - when you go to your recertification interview, make sure to specifically tell your eligibility worker that you want to claim the medical expense deduction. The standard medical deduction in California for 2025 is $120 if you can verify at least $35 in monthly medical expenses. If your actual expenses exceed $170 monthly, you should itemize everything instead of taking the standard deduction. And don't forget about the Telephone Access Program (California LifeLine) for discounted phone service and the utility allowance for CalFresh if you pay heating/cooling costs separately from rent.
when u report ur rent increase make sure u also report ALL utilities u pay!! even if its just ur phone bill or internet!! those count toward the standard utility allowance and can get u more benefits!!!
BTW if ur low on food this month, don't forget to check local food banks! I use one that gives out fresh produce twice a month and another that does shelf-stable items once a month. Really helps stretch the CalFresh benefits.
Freya Andersen
my mom got some kinda extra payment last month but it was from social security not calfresh i think theres some confusion abt different programs maybe??
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Sean Flanagan
•That's a good point! Social Security recipients did receive a 3.1% cost-of-living adjustment in January 2025, which might be creating confusion. CalFresh (SNAP) benefits had their own annual adjustment in October 2024, but there are no emergency supplements currently.
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Ravi Choudhury
Thank you everyone for all the helpful information! I'm going to call tomorrow and report both my rent increase and childcare expenses - had no idea those could help increase my benefits! I appreciate all the advice and clarification about the emergency allotments no longer being available. At least now I can budget accurately knowing exactly what to expect.
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Omar Farouk
•Good plan! Those two expenses can make a significant difference in your benefit calculation. Be sure to have documentation ready - a lease showing the rent increase and receipts or a statement from your childcare provider. Good luck!
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