I've been dealing with CalFresh for about 6 months now and this is such helpful information! I had no idea about the EBT customer service line at 877-328-9677 - that's going to be a lifesaver for checking balances when the website is down. Also really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences with keeping documentation. As a new recipient, I've been pretty trusting that the system just works, but clearly I need to start taking screenshots and getting receipts for everything. This community is so valuable for learning these practical tips that they definitely don't tell you about during the application process!

Just wanted to add another helpful tip for newcomers - you can also check your CalFresh case status and upcoming appointment dates by calling your county's automated phone line (the number is usually on the back of your EBT card or any letters you've received). This is separate from the EBT balance line and can be really useful when BenefitsCal is down. I learned this after missing an important interview because I couldn't log in to see the appointment notification online! Also, if you're ever in a situation where you need to submit time-sensitive documents and both the website and fax are having issues, you can usually email them directly to your caseworker if you have their contact info. Not all workers are great about checking email promptly, but it's another backup option that has saved me before.

Welcome to the community! I've been navigating the California benefits system for a few years now and wanted to share a few more resources that might help. Many counties have "211" services - you can dial 2-1-1 from any phone and they'll connect you with local assistance programs including clothing help. Also, if you're near any community colleges, many have student resource centers that help families in the community even if you're not enrolled. They often have emergency assistance funds or know about local clothing drives. And don't forget about Facebook community groups for your area - people are always posting about clothing swaps and giveaways for kids. You're doing great advocating for your family!

Hi Luca! Just wanted to chime in as someone who's been in a similar situation. While CalFresh is only for food (which everyone has correctly pointed out), I wanted to mention that some Walmart stores have a community resource center that can help connect you with local clothing assistance programs. Also, if you happen to be near any Sikh temples (gurdwaras), they often have community pantries that include clothing donations - and you don't need to be Sikh to receive help, they welcome everyone. Another thing that helped me was checking with local churches even if you're not religious - many have "blessing boxes" or community closets. The United Way website for your county is also a great resource to search for assistance programs by zip code. Hang in there, it does get easier once you learn about all the different resources available!

Quick update on the legal resources available to you: 1. Bay Area Legal Aid in Richmond: (510) 233-9954 2. Legal Services of Northern California: (510) 250-6354 Both offer free legal help to low-income individuals with public benefits issues. They can help you prepare for the state hearing and potentially represent you. To request a state hearing, call 1-800-743-8525 or complete the form on the back of your denial notice. You only have 90 days from the date of the denial to request this hearing, so don't delay. In the meantime, as others have suggested, call 211 for emergency food assistance and apply for emergency replacement benefits through your county office.

I'm so sorry this happened to you! As someone who works with CalFresh recipients, I want to emphasize that you have strong rights here. The fact that your benefits were used out-of-state is actually a huge red flag that should trigger automatic fraud protections. A few important points that haven't been mentioned yet: 1. Document EVERYTHING - save screenshots of your EBT transaction history showing the Texas purchases, keep copies of your police report, and document every conversation with county staff (names, dates, what was said). 2. The county is required to provide you with written notice of their denial with specific reasons. If you only got a verbal denial, request this in writing immediately. 3. While you're fighting this, you can also apply for emergency CalFresh if you qualify - this is separate from the stolen benefits issue and could provide immediate help. 4. Contact your local supervisor's office and your state assembly member's office. Elected officials often have constituent services that can help navigate county bureaucracy when residents are getting the runaround. You should not have to go hungry while fighting this! The system has protections in place specifically for situations like yours - don't let them discourage you from using them.

Just want to add - when you call to report your move, ask for confirmation that they've initiated the Inter-County Transfer and get a reference number if possible. I learned this the hard way when my transfer got "lost" in the system for 2 weeks. Having that reference number helped me track it down when I called back. Also, keep your current county case number handy - San Bernardino will need it to pull up your case. The whole process should be seamless but it's good to have documentation just in case something goes wrong. Good luck with your move!

Moving between counties can be stressful but the process is pretty straightforward once you know what to do! I moved from Fresno to San Bernardino about 6 months ago and my benefits actually stayed exactly the same since my rent and income were similar. The key thing is timing - definitely call your current eligibility worker at least 2 weeks before you move if possible. I called the main CalFresh line for Riverside County and they walked me through the whole Inter-County Transfer process. My EBT card kept working the whole time and I never missed a payment. One tip: have your new lease ready to send them right away because they'll want to verify your new address and rent amount pretty quickly. The San Bernardino office was actually really helpful once my case transferred over. You've got this!

btw u should apply for calfresh emergency supplement if ur in a bad spot, they can give u extra benefits in 3 days if u qualify

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now! My hours as a retail worker got cut drastically after the holiday season, but my benefits were already reduced because of the extra December shifts. Here's what I've learned from my caseworker: You definitely CAN get your benefits adjusted when your income decreases - don't let anyone tell you otherwise. The key is submitting a "Change Report" or "Mid-Period Report" with your recent paystubs. Make sure to emphasize that this is a DECREASE in income. One tip that really helped me: when you call or visit the office, ask them to calculate what your benefits SHOULD be based on your current income level. Sometimes they can do a quick calculation right there to show you what you'd qualify for. Also, keep copies of everything you submit and get a receipt or case note number. The system moves slowly but it does work if you stay on top of it. Good luck!