Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I'm going to apply online today through BenefitsCal and make sure to disclose that final Texas payment. Hopefully the process goes smoothly, but at least I know what to expect now. Really appreciate all the tips!

Welcome to California! Just wanted to add that when you do your CalFresh interview (which can be done over the phone), the caseworker will likely ask specifically about any benefits you received in other states in the past 12 months. Having that Texas cancellation confirmation email ready will definitely help speed things along. Also, since you mentioned you just moved 2 weeks ago, you might want to apply in the county where you're currently living - each county has slightly different processing times. Los Angeles and San Francisco counties tend to be busier, so if you're in a smaller county, you might get processed faster. The online application is really straightforward, and you can always call if you get stuck on any questions!

Adding to what everyone said - I've been changing my PIN monthly for the past year and it's become second nature. One thing that really helps is doing it on the same day each month (I do it on the 1st). The automated phone system at 877-328-9677 is definitely the fastest - just have your card ready and it takes about 2 minutes. Also want to echo what others said about being careful WHERE you use your card. I've started avoiding gas stations entirely for EBT purchases after hearing they're common targets for skimmers. Stick to major grocery chains when possible. And if a card reader looks loose, worn, or different from others nearby, trust your instincts and find another machine! The fact that we have to worry about this at all is frustrating, but protecting our benefits is worth the small inconvenience of regular PIN changes.

Just wanted to add my experience - I've been using the online method at ebt.ca.gov for PIN changes and it's been working great for me! Takes literally 2 minutes once you're logged in. For anyone having trouble with the website like TechNinja mentioned, try clearing your browser cache first or using a different browser. Sometimes the site gets glitchy with certain browsers. Also, pro tip: when you're at the store, take a quick look at the card reader before you insert your card. If there's a weird overlay or it looks different from other machines, don't use it! I've started taking photos of suspicious readers and reporting them to store management. We all need to look out for each other in this community. The monthly PIN change routine is definitely the way to go. Better safe than sorry when it comes to our food security!

just remembered!! if u have school age kids check if ur school district has resources too. our district partners with some local org that helps with bills for families with kids in the schools

I'm so glad you're getting help! Just wanted to add that when you call PG&E, ask specifically about their "Level Pay Plan" too - it averages your annual bill into 12 equal monthly payments so you don't get those shocking high bills in summer/winter. Also, since you mentioned you have little kids, check if your county has a "Keep Your Utilities On" or similar emergency fund - many counties set aside money specifically for families with children facing utility shutoffs. The waiting lists can be shorter than other programs since kids are prioritized. Hope everything works out for you and your family!

Quick update on timelines from my experience: CARE/FERA approval usually takes 1-2 weeks and is applied to your next bill. LIHEAP can take 4-6 weeks but they can expedite in emergency situations, especially with disconnection notices. Also, since you mentioned having children, check if you qualify for CalWORKs - unlike CalFresh, they do offer limited assistance with utility emergencies through their emergency assistance programs. Worth looking into if you meet the income requirements.

Another resource to check out is your local Salvation Army and Catholic Charities - they often have emergency utility assistance funds that can be processed much faster than government programs. I've seen them help people within 24-48 hours in crisis situations. Also, if you're a veteran or have a veteran in your household, there are specific utility assistance programs through organizations like Veterans Community Living Centers that work really quickly. And don't forget to ask PG&E about their budget billing program once you get through this crisis - it spreads your annual costs over 12 equal payments so you don't get these shocking high winter bills. Hang in there, you've got this!

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.