I've been using CalFresh for about 2 years and this happened to me once at a Walmart around 1am. The cashier told me the same thing about cards being "locked after midnight" but I knew that wasn't right. Turned out their EBT processor was down for maintenance. I went to a 24-hour CVS down the street and my card worked perfectly. It's really annoying when store employees spread misinformation like that - makes people think there's something wrong with their benefits when it's just a technical issue on the store's end. Always worth trying a second location before panicking!

This whole thread is so eye-opening! I'm pretty new to CalFresh and had no idea that cashiers might give wrong information about EBT policies. I've been mostly shopping during regular hours but knowing that my benefits are available 24/7 is really reassuring for those times when I need to grab something late. Thanks to everyone who shared the EBT customer service number and tips about trying different stores - I'm definitely saving all this info. It's really helpful to have a community where people share these real-world experiences instead of just the official policies that don't always tell you what actually happens at stores.

did u check ur transaction history? maybe it wasnt fraud maybe someone in ur household spent it and isnt telling u?

This is such a common problem now and it's terrifying! I work at a local food pantry and we've been seeing more families come in because of EBT theft while they wait for replacement benefits. A few practical tips that might help while you're waiting: 1. Contact 211 (dial 2-1-1) - they can connect you with emergency food resources in your area 2. Many churches and community centers have food pantries that don't require paperwork 3. Some school districts have weekend backpack programs for families in crisis 4. WIC offices sometimes have emergency food vouchers even if you're not on WIC Also, once you get your benefits back, consider only keeping a small amount on your card and asking your county worker about splitting your monthly benefits into weekly deposits if that's an option. It limits how much can be stolen at once. Hang in there - the system is slow but they will make this right!

Great job navigating this difficult situation! Those emergency vouchers should help in the meantime. Two more tips that might help others dealing with EBT theft: 1. Request a new EBT card immediately with a different number to prevent future theft 2. Once you get your replacement benefits, consider using the EBT card lock feature in the EBT mobile app - you can lock your card between uses to prevent unauthorized transactions Also, for anyone reading this thread in the future, California implemented new theft protection measures in late 2024, so you now have 90 days to report EBT theft (previously it was only 30 days). The county must process valid claims within 10 calendar days.

I'm so sorry you're going through this - EBT theft is unfortunately becoming way too common and the process to get help is frustrating. Reading through all the advice here, it sounds like you're on the right track now with getting the emergency vouchers and submitting all the required paperwork. One thing I'd add that helped me when I had my benefits stolen - take screenshots of your EBT transaction history showing the fraudulent charges AND your account balance before/after. Print them out too if you can. Some counties want this as "proof" even though it seems obvious. Also, if you used your card at any ATMs recently, avoid those locations in the future - a lot of the skimmers are on standalone ATMs at gas stations and convenience stores. The waiting is the worst part, especially when you have kids to feed. Glad you found some resources to bridge the gap. Fingers crossed your replacement benefits come through quickly!

UPDATE: I called this morning right when they opened and asked for a theft claims specialist (as suggested here). I specifically mentioned I needed an "urgent review based on household hardship with minor children" and got transferred to someone who actually seemed to know what they were talking about! She found my EBT-2259 form in the system, said it hadn't been processed yet, but that she would expedite it due to having children in the household. She said I should see the replacement benefits within 3 business days! I also applied for Emergency Expedited Services as a backup. Will update again when/if I get my benefits replaced. Thank you all for the advice!!!

That's amazing news! So glad you were able to get through to someone who actually knew what they were doing. The specific language really does make a difference - "urgent review based on household hardship with minor children" is way better than just saying it's an emergency. Fingers crossed you get your benefits back within those 3 days! And smart move applying for Emergency Expedited Services as backup too. Thanks for updating us - this thread is going to help so many people dealing with the same issue.

One more important point - when you go to the office, make sure they give you a written receipt showing you submitted the EBT 2259 form. Some offices are claiming they never received forms when they get backed up. This receipt is your proof you submitted within the 10-day window, which is legally required for replacement. Also, ask if they can issue emergency food vouchers while you wait for the replacement. Some counties offer this for families with children who have had benefits stolen. It's not guaranteed but worth asking about.

I'm so sorry this happened to you! EBT theft is unfortunately becoming more common. Just wanted to add one thing that helped me when my benefits were stolen last year - if you have any food banks or pantries in your area, don't hesitate to use them while you wait for the replacement. I was embarrassed at first, but they were so understanding and it really helped bridge the gap. Many churches and community centers also have emergency food programs specifically for situations like this. You're doing everything right by going in person tomorrow - stay strong and keep advocating for your family!