California CalFresh

BenefitsCal is back up!! Just got in and was able to upload my documents. It's moving really slow though so be patient when you're uploading. At least it's working now!

Just wanted to share another tip that helped me during system outages - if you have a smartphone, try using the mobile browser instead of the desktop version. Sometimes one works when the other doesn't. Also, I've found that trying to access BenefitsCal very early in the morning (like 5-6am) or late at night often works better because there's less traffic on the servers. It's frustrating that we have to work around their technical issues, but these workarounds have saved me multiple times when I had urgent deadlines!

Update from my county worker: They confirmed this is a known issue happening statewide. The blank notices are being generated during system maintenance but don't contain any actual information. They said you don't need to call about them unless you're expecting an important notice about your case. They're supposedly working on a fix that will be implemented in the next system update.

I've been dealing with this exact same issue for the past few weeks! Got 4 blank eNotices over two different days and it was driving me crazy thinking I missed something critical. After reading everyone's responses here, I feel so much better knowing it's a widespread system glitch. I actually did call my county office (took forever to get through) and they confirmed what others have said - it's just phantom notices from system maintenance. They told me to ignore any blank ones unless I'm specifically waiting for something like recertification paperwork. Really hoping they get this fixed soon because the anxiety of thinking you missed an important notice is no joke!

Hi Melaena! The RAMP (Restaurant Meals Program) allows eligible CalFresh recipients to use their EBT cards at participating restaurants. For Blackstone Avenue in Fresno specifically, I'd recommend checking the official CalFresh website or calling your local county office at (559) 600-2060 for the most current list of participating locations. Restaurant participation can change, so it's best to get up-to-date information. You can also look for "CalFresh EBT Accepted Here" signs at restaurants along Blackstone. Common chains that often participate include Subway, Carl's Jr., and some pizza places, but each location needs to be individually approved. Hope this helps!

my kids got cards but had no $$ on them lol thanks for nothing california

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! I have 3 kids (ages 9, 7, and 4) and only got one P-EBT card so far for my oldest. I was panicking thinking I messed something up on my application. Reading everyone's responses here is so reassuring - sounds like this is totally normal and the cards just come at different times. The waiting is stressful though when you're counting on those benefits for groceries. I'll keep checking the mailbox and try to be patient. Thanks for asking this question because I was about to make the same post!

Just wanted to add that you can also check your balance at most ATMs using your EBT card, even after your case closes. This is helpful if you don't want to make a purchase just to see your balance on a receipt. Most grocery stores and banks have ATMs that accept EBT cards for balance inquiries. Just make sure to use ATMs that don't charge fees for balance checks!

Thanks