As someone who just went through this process a few months ago, I completely understand your frustration! The waiting period for that first deposit is absolutely nerve-wracking. Here's what I learned: California distributes benefits based on the last digit of your case number throughout the first 10 days of each month. So if your case number ends in 3, your benefits should load on the 3rd, 4th if it ends in 4, etc. For your initial benefits though, it can definitely take the full 3 business days they mentioned, sometimes even a bit longer due to processing delays between approval and EBT issuance. I'd recommend downloading the ebtEDGE app and checking your balance there - it sometimes updates faster than the phone line. Also, you can check your balance for free at any grocery store register without making a purchase, just ask the cashier or use self-checkout kiosks. If you're really struggling with food right now, call 211 for local emergency food resources while you wait. Hang in there - once that first deposit hits and you know your monthly schedule, it gets so much easier!

I'm so glad I found this thread! I'm a CalFresh outreach coordinator and I see this confusion about pending deposits constantly. One thing I tell everyone is to take a screenshot or photo of your approval notice because it often has more details than people realize at first glance. Also, many people don't know that you can create a MyBenefits account on the California Department of Social Services website where you can sometimes see case status updates that aren't visible through the EBT system. If you're ever in this situation again, you can also contact your local Community Action Agency - they often have direct lines to county EBT specialists and can help expedite issues. The system really needs better communication, but at least communities like this help fill in the gaps. Thanks to everyone sharing their experiences - this is exactly the kind of peer support that makes navigating these programs more manageable!

I'm in almost the exact same boat as you! Got approved for $28/month working part-time at Target. At first I was frustrated too, but honestly it's been a lifesaver for buying basics like oatmeal, peanut butter, and canned goods. The thing that surprised me was how much further it goes when you focus on cost-per-serving instead of just looking at the total. Also, if your hours ever get cut (which happens a lot in retail), you can report that change right away and potentially get more benefits without waiting for your next review. Definitely worth getting the card - I've been using mine for almost a year now and it really does add up!

Congrats on getting approved, Kai! I know it's frustrating when the amount seems so small, but $22 is actually pretty typical for your income level. I'm a single person working similar hours and got $19/month when I first applied. What really helped me was calling to make sure they had all my expense documentation - turns out they missed my utility costs entirely. Also, don't underestimate how much that $22 can stretch! I use mine exclusively for pantry staples like rice, beans, oats, and eggs at discount stores. It covers my basics for the month and frees up my cash for other necessities. Definitely get that EBT card - worst case you're out nothing, best case you save $22+ every month on groceries!

I'm new to this community but wanted to share my experience since I went through something very similar last year. My CalFresh benefits stopped unexpectedly and I was terrified I'd lost them permanently. After reading through all the amazing advice here, I realize I got lucky - I happened to call within the first month and they were able to restore my case because I had missed my SAR7 due to being hospitalized. The caseworker explained that they have to send notices by mail, but if you don't receive them or can't respond due to circumstances beyond your control, they can often work with you. Oliver, definitely try the BenefitsCal login first like Mary suggested - that's such a smart way to figure out exactly what happened before you call. And don't be discouraged if the first person you talk to says no - sometimes it helps to ask to speak with a supervisor or call back and try a different worker. The whole process taught me to set calendar reminders for those SAR7 deadlines every 6 months. Wishing you the best of luck getting this resolved quickly!

I'm new to this community and just wanted to say how impressed I am by the wealth of knowledge and support shown in this thread! As someone who hasn't had to navigate CalFresh issues yet, I'm learning so much from everyone's experiences. The step-by-step approach that's emerged here - checking BenefitsCal online first, calling about restoration with good cause, and having a backup plan for reapplication - creates such a clear roadmap for what could otherwise be a really overwhelming situation. Oliver, it sounds like you went from feeling hopeless to having multiple concrete options thanks to everyone's input. Special appreciation to Isabella for the insider perspective and to everyone who shared their personal success stories. This is exactly the kind of community support that makes navigating complex government systems feel manageable. I'm definitely bookmarking this thread for future reference!

Wow, this entire thread has been incredibly informative! I'm relatively new to CalFresh and had no idea that EBT cards could get blocked so easily or that the unblocking process could be so inconsistent between counties. It's honestly pretty concerning that something as basic as card functionality can vary so much across California. I'm definitely going to be much more careful with my PIN going forward and make sure to keep my card away from my curious toddler! The practical advice shared here is amazing - calling to check your balance before heading to the store, downloading the EBT Edge app, and knowing about food banks for emergency situations. I'm bookmarking this conversation for future reference. It's really heartwarming to see how this community comes together to share knowledge and support each other through these frustrating system issues. Thanks to everyone for creating such a valuable resource for navigating CalFresh challenges!

This entire discussion has been so incredibly helpful! I'm also new to CalFresh and honestly had no idea about any of these potential card blocking issues. Reading through everyone's experiences really highlights how much we don't get told upfront about these system quirks. The inconsistency between counties is really frustrating - it seems like such basic functionality should work the same way statewide. I'm definitely going to be extra careful with my PIN and download the EBT Edge app right away. The tip about calling to check your balance before going to the store is brilliant and would save so much unnecessary stress. It's also really good to know about food banks as an emergency backup - I had no idea they could provide immediate assistance without paperwork. Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and practical advice. This community support makes navigating the CalFresh system so much less intimidating for newcomers like me!

Based on all the responses, it's clear this is a scam. To summarize for anyone else reading this thread: 1. Report the scam call to your county CalFresh office 2. Check your EBT balance regularly 3. Set up transaction alerts through the ConnectEBT app 4. Never give personal information to someone who calls you 5. If you suspect fraud, report it immediately (within 10 days) to be eligible for benefit replacement 6. Always call the official numbers directly rather than responding to incoming calls Stay safe everyone!

I'm so glad you called and got your account secured! This thread is really helpful - I had no idea about the 10-day rule for reporting stolen benefits or that you could set up transaction alerts. Going to download the ConnectEBT app right now. It's scary how these scammers are targeting people who need these benefits the most. Everyone should bookmark this thread as a reference for spotting these scams!