For the 2024-2025 school year, P-EBT is automatic for eligible children. If your children receive free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program, or attend a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) school where all students receive free meals, you should be automatically eligible. No application is needed. However, make sure your school has your current mailing address, as new P-EBT cards are mailed to the address on file with the school.

I understand your frustration with the delays. The different amounts are actually based on the school's reported data about each student's attendance and school schedule. For example, if one child had multiple excused absences or a different number of instructional days than siblings, their benefit amount would be calculated differently. The system isn't perfect, but the varying amounts do follow a specific formula based on each child's individual data.

That might make sense if it was clearly explained ANYWHERE in their communications! But they just deposit random amounts with zero explanation. And why does it take them 6 months to process attendance data that schools submit weekly? Sorry but I'm not buying the excuses anymore.

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.

I didn't know Amazon Fresh delivered in my area! I just checked and they do. That could really help stretch the $23 I have left. Thank you for this suggestion!

Thank you so much! We definitely spend over $170 monthly on medical expenses between us. I'm going to start gathering all our receipts and making a list of our regular expenses. This might really help increase our benefits.

+1 for meals on wheels they helped my uncle too, not expensive and good for seniors who cant cook much

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.

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.