UPDATE: Problem solved! I used that Claimyr service someone suggested above and actually got through to my county worker in about 30 minutes (after trying for 2 days on my own). Turns out there WAS a fraud alert on my account because I tried using my card at a new location. The worker removed the block right away and I was able to withdraw cash at the ATM immediately after. Thank you all for your help and suggestions!

So glad you got this resolved! This is exactly why I always recommend keeping a backup plan for these situations. EBT system glitches happen way too often, especially around the beginning of the month when everyone's trying to access their benefits. For anyone else reading this who might face similar issues in the future - it's also worth knowing that some counties have emergency food assistance programs that can help bridge the gap while you're waiting for card issues to get resolved. And if you have kids, don't forget about local food banks and school meal programs that don't require your EBT card to work. Thanks for updating us with the solution - this thread will definitely help other people who run into the same problem!

Been through this exact situation so many times! I'm on the 8th too and honestly it's about 70/30 - works at midnight 70% of the time but sometimes you gotta wait till like 1-2am. What I started doing is calling that EBT number (1-877-328-9677) right at midnight to check if it actually processed before I leave the house. Super quick automated system that tells you your real balance, not just the pending stuff. Also pro tip - if you do go out, Safeway and Target seem to have their systems sync faster than other places in my experience. And if you're really stuck tonight, most food pantries have emergency contact numbers you can call - I had to use one once when my benefits got delayed 2 days and they hooked me up same night. Just search "[your city] emergency food assistance" and you'll usually find some options. Hope it works out for you and the kids tonight!

Just wanted to add my experience since I see a lot of mixed info here. I've been on CalFresh for about 8 months now (benefits load on the 20th) and I've found that timing really depends on your county's processing system. In my county (San Bernardino), I've had the best luck going to 24-hour grocery stores around 12:30am rather than right at midnight - seems like there's usually a brief processing window. One thing that's helped me a lot is having a backup plan ready. I keep a list on my phone of all the 24-hour stores in my area along with their addresses, so if one location isn't working I can quickly try another without wasting gas driving around aimlessly. Also learned the hard way to always bring my ID with me - some stores require it for EBT transactions late at night for security reasons. If you're really in a tight spot with feeding the kids tonight, don't forget about WIC emergency services if you qualify, or calling 211 for immediate food assistance resources in your area. Sometimes they can connect you with churches or community groups that do late-night food distribution. Good luck tonight!

Hey Keisha! Congrats on getting approved for CalFresh! 🎉 I see you've gotten tons of great advice here about deposit dates and the ConnectEBT app. One thing I'd add is to keep all your CalFresh paperwork organized in one place - approval letters, case number info, any correspondence from your county office. You'll need to reference these documents pretty regularly, especially when it comes time for recertification. Also, if you're looking to stretch your benefits further, check if your area has any food banks or pantries that complement CalFresh - many people don't realize you can use both resources together. The combination can really help make your food budget work better. Good luck with everything, and don't hesitate to ask questions here - this community is super supportive!

Hey Keisha! Welcome and congrats on your approval! 🎉 I see you've gotten amazing advice here already. Just wanted to add that you can also call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card (1-877-328-9677) to check your balance and transaction history once your benefits load. They have an automated system that's available 24/7, so you don't have to wait for business hours. Also, pro tip: benefits usually load overnight, so if your deposit date is the 7th, check your balance early morning on the 7th rather than staying up late on the 6th waiting for it! The system typically updates between 12-6 AM. You're going to do great - the first month feels overwhelming but it becomes second nature pretty quickly!

i tried doing this with my pin but forgot what i changed it to 🤦‍♀️🤦‍♀️ had to go to the office in person to reset it and missed work so lost money anyway lol. maybe write it down somewhere safe if ur forgetful like me!!!

This is such valuable advice! I've been working with families affected by EBT theft in my volunteer role, and the PIN timing strategy you've shared is one of the most practical solutions I've heard. One additional tip I'd add: if you shop at the same stores regularly, try to vary your shopping locations and times after changing your PIN. Thieves sometimes target specific store locations where they've successfully installed skimmers. Also, for anyone who has been a victim of EBT theft - document EVERYTHING. Take photos of your transaction history, keep records of when you reported it, and save all correspondence with the county. While California isn't currently replacing stolen CalFresh benefits, there's ongoing litigation and policy pressure that might change this. Having documentation could be crucial if replacement policies change in the future. Stay strong everyone - this shouldn't be something we have to deal with, but sharing strategies like this helps protect our community! 💪

did u try calling the county yet? I know its frustrating but u really need to talk to ur worker to get this fixed. Sometimes the EBT customer service number can transfer u directly to a caseworker if u tell them its urgent!

Just wanted to add that you should also check if your county has any local CalFresh offices that might be easier to reach than the main number. Some counties have satellite offices or community partners where you can drop off documents in person. Also, when you do get through to report the utility allowance, ask them to backdate it to when you first started paying utilities separately - sometimes they can adjust your benefits retroactively for a few months if you can prove you were eligible earlier. Good luck getting through, and don't give up! The extra benefits will be worth the hassle of dealing with the phone system.