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When my sister moved counties last year, she ended up having to reapply because the transfer got messed up somehow. The new county said they never received her case info from the old county. Just make sure you follow up regularly to check on the status of your transfer.
One more important tip: start checking your EBT card balance frequently during the transfer period. If you notice your benefits don't get loaded when expected, contact both counties immediately. Sometimes transfers can cause delays in benefit issuance, but if you're proactive, they can often fix it quickly. Also, once the transfer is complete, your benefit amount might change slightly because some counties calculate utility allowances differently. Don't be surprised if there's a small adjustment in your benefit amount after the transfer.
For future reference, here's what you should know about lost EBT cards: 1. Report lost/stolen cards immediately by calling 1-877-328-9677 (available 24/7) 2. Your old card will be deactivated and cannot be used even if found 3. You can check your balance through BenefitsCal, the EBT app, or by calling customer service with your Social Security Number 4. Replacement cards typically arrive within 5-7 business days 5. There's no fee for your first replacement card each year 6. If you've reported the card lost/stolen and unauthorized purchases were made BEFORE reporting, you may not be reimbursed Also, when you get your new card, consider setting up the CalFresh EBT mobile app. It lets you check your balance anytime and will alert you to any transactions, which helps you catch potential fraud quickly.
my freind says get ur benifits early in the AM on the day they load and take ALL the cash out right away dont leave anything on the card
The WHOLE SYSTEM is broken!!! My neighbor had hers stolen THREE times and the third time they basically accused her of lying and denied the claim. She had to get legal aid involved to get her money back. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING and don't let them push you around!!
That's exactly what I'm afraid of - them denying my claim because it's the second time. It's not my fault their cards aren't secure! Did your neighbor eventually get her money back the third time?
This is so scary! I just got approved and now I'm paranoid about my card. Does anyone know if you can pick up your EBT card in person instead of having it mailed? I don't trust the mail system after reading this!
Yes, you can request to pick up your card in person at your county CalFresh office. Call your caseworker and ask specifically for "in-person EBT card issuance" instead of mail delivery. Some counties will do this automatically if you ask during your application process, but you can still request it even after approval.
Just wanted to follow up - were you able to get any help with this? The situation you described is absolutely considered Administrative Error since you never received the card. Under California code regulations (MPP Section 63-602.6), you should be eligible for replacement benefits in this scenario. If you're still struggling, I'd recommend contacting your local Legal Aid office. They often have specialists who handle CalFresh issues and can advocate on your behalf at no cost. They know exactly which regulations apply and can sometimes resolve these issues with a single call that would take you weeks of frustration.
Thank you for following up! I filed a police report yesterday and was finally able to reach a supervisor at my county office this morning after trying for hours. They're sending me a form to fill out for "Administrative Error Replacement" like you mentioned! They said it might take up to 10 days to process, but they're also looking into emergency benefits since my kids and I literally have no food. I'll update once I know more, but it sounds promising! I'm so grateful for everyone's advice here - I was ready to give up after that first call.
Alina Rosenthal
anyone know if the app tells u when ur SAR7 is due?? i always forget to send mine in and then my benefits get cut off 🤦♀️
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Mohammad Khaled
•The EBT apps don't show SAR7 due dates, but you can set that up in the BenefitsCal portal/app. It's separate from the EBT apps but lets you manage all your paperwork. You can even submit your SAR7 through it now!
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Miguel Harvey
Another option besides the apps is accessing your EBT account through the California EBT cardholder portal at www.ebt.ca.gov. It has all the same features as the ConnectEBT app but some people prefer using a website over an app. Just another option to consider!
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Fiona Sand
•Perfect! I think I might prefer the website actually. I'll try both and see which one I like better. Thanks for the suggestion!
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