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Update: I got the text today and tried the Edge system. It actually was really straightforward! The link took me to a secure page where I verified my identity with my case number and birthdate. Then I just took pictures of my last three paystubs and submitted them. Got a confirmation number right away. For anyone who's worried about this in the future - it's definitely legit and pretty easy to use. Just make sure you have good lighting when taking pictures of your documents. Thanks everyone for the help!
That's great to hear! Always make sure to save that confirmation number somewhere in case there are any questions later. I usually take a screenshot of the confirmation page too. With the Edge system, your county worker should be able to see your documents within 1-2 business days, which is much faster than mail or dropbox submission.
hey quick question did u have 2 verify ur identity with ur social security # too or just case # and birthday? my worker wants me to use edge next week
You know they got those new EBT cards with the chips now that are supposed to be more secure but idk if that really helps with skimmers. my cousin still got her CalWorks money stolen even with the chip card.
The chip cards are definitely more secure than the magnetic stripe alone, but they aren't foolproof. Skimmers can still capture data from the magnetic stripe if you swipe instead of using the chip. Always try to use the chip insertion method when possible - it creates a unique code for each transaction that can't be reused by scammers. And remember, CalWorks funds and CalFresh benefits are on the same EBT card but are separate programs with different rules for replacement if theft occurs.
Update: I called the EBT customer service line and they said my balance looks normal with no suspicious transactions. I'm still going to change my PIN just to be safe, and I set up those text alerts that someone mentioned! Thanks everyone for the advice - I'm going to be WAY more careful about where I use my EBT card from now on. The county worker also said they're seeing more skimming cases lately and recommended only using the card at major grocery stores if possible.
Smart move changing your PIN! I change mine every few months now just as a precaution. Also another tip - if you shop at the same stores regularly, try to use the same checkout lanes with cashiers you recognize. My local grocery store has a cashier who actually watches for people who might be tampering with their machines.
this happened to my neighbor and the new card took almost 2 weeks to arrive!! might wanna check about getting it sent faster somehow
Glad you got through! For future reference (for everyone reading this), here are some prevention tips: 1. Change your PIN regularly 2. Check your balance frequently to catch fraud early 3. Consider transferring benefits to a separate account after they arrive 4. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN 5. Avoid using EBT at gas stations when possible (highest skimming rates) Also, the state is working on implementing chip cards for EBT which should help reduce theft significantly once rolled out in late 2025.
Let me clarify something important that others haven't mentioned yet. Your EBT card is completely different from your online account system. The switch from CalWIN to BenefitsCal only affects how you manage your case online and submit documents. Your existing EBT card will continue to work exactly as before, and your benefits will load onto the same card on the same schedule. Your recertification date also remains unchanged. The only difference is how you complete that recertification - you'll now do it through BenefitsCal instead of CalWIN. When you create your BenefitsCal account, make sure to have your case number and personal information ready. If you have trouble linking your existing case, contact the Fresno County office at 1-855-832-8082 or visit fresnocountyca.gov/calfresh for county-specific guidance.
Thank you so much for explaining! That makes me feel better knowing my EBT card will still work. I found my case number and created a BenefitsCal account - it worked! I can see all my CalFresh information there now. The providers app is now working too with my new login. Really appreciate everyone's help!
Am I the only one who thinks its RIDICULOUS that they switch entire systems without properly notifying recipients??? Some of us depend on these benefits to FEED OUR FAMILIES and they just change everything without clear instructions!!! I had the same problem and missed uploading my quarterly report because of this!!! Had to get emergency food from a food bank while they reactivated my benefits!!!
You're absolutely right to be frustrated. The county did send out notices about the system change, but they were often included with other paperwork and many people missed them. For anyone who had benefits discontinued due to the system change, you can request a 'good cause' restoration of benefits by contacting your eligibility worker and explaining that the system transition prevented you from reporting on time. In most cases, they should restore benefits retroactively without requiring a new application.
Ava Garcia
Update on this situation: I just went through EBT theft in March and they DID reimburse everything including my saved balance! The county worker told me California just updated their policy. They asked me to fill out an EBT-106 form and I had to confirm which transactions weren't mine. Got everything back in about 10 days! Maybe call them back and specifically ask about the EBT-106 form for electronic theft replacement?
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StarSailor}
•This is interesting information. The policy may be in transition as California has been updating EBT theft policies. However, the full replacement may depend on specific circumstances, timing of the theft, or your particular county's implementation of new guidelines. I'd recommend everyone impacted by EBT theft to specifically request the EBT-106 form and ask if they qualify under any updated policies. Documentation is critical - keep records of when you reported the theft and all communication with the county office.
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Miguel Silva
try calling again sometimes u get a different worker who knows more or is more helpful js
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Fatima Al-Suwaidi
•Yeah I'm definitely going to try again. It's so frustrating that different workers tell you different things. I'll update here if I get anywhere with it!
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