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This is such a valuable thread! I'm bookmarking this for future reference. It's honestly shocking how many hoops you have to jump through just to access your own benefit information online when you get a replacement card. The fact that ConnectEBT doesn't automatically sync with new card numbers or provide ANY guidance about this process is really poor system design. I'm dealing with a similar situation right now - my card got demagnetized and won't swipe anywhere, so I need to request a replacement. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences here, especially the detailed step-by-step instructions. It's frustrating that we have to figure this stuff out through trial and error and community forums instead of having proper documentation from the agencies themselves!
I totally agree with you about the poor system design! I'm new to CalFresh and just got my first card a few weeks ago. Reading through this thread has been eye-opening - I had no idea that ConnectEBT and BenefitsCal were completely separate systems run by different companies. That explains so much confusion I've had trying to navigate everything! It's really concerning that there's basically no official documentation for something as basic as updating your card number online. What happens if someone isn't tech-savvy enough to figure out the workaround, or doesn't have access to community forums like this? It seems like a major accessibility issue. Thanks to everyone who shared their solutions here - I'm definitely saving this thread in case I ever need to replace my card in the future!
Just wanted to add another tip for anyone dealing with this in the future - if you're having trouble with the ConnectEBT website even after following the User ID/password reset steps, try clearing your browser cache and cookies completely before attempting the process. I had a similar issue last year and kept getting error messages until I cleared everything and started fresh. Also, I noticed the site works better on Chrome or Firefox rather than Safari or Edge. It's ridiculous that we need these workarounds, but at least there are solutions! Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences here - this thread is going to help so many people avoid the frustration of being stuck without online access to their benefits.
Great tip about clearing the browser cache! I've run into similar issues with other government websites where old cached data causes problems. It's wild that we need to become tech support experts just to access our own benefits online. The browser compatibility issue you mentioned is so frustrating too - you'd think in 2025 these sites would work properly across all browsers. Thanks for sharing that Chrome/Firefox tip, I'll definitely remember that if I ever have issues. This whole thread has become like an unofficial user manual for ConnectEBT problems!
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I'm dealing with the exact same issue right now! Called the EBT line three times today and keep getting that "information doesn't match" message when I enter my zip code. It's so frustrating because I know I'm entering it correctly - I've been using the same zip for years. Reading through these comments it sounds like there was a system update that caused problems, so hopefully it gets fixed soon. I need to check my balance before I go grocery shopping tomorrow. Has anyone tried using the mobile app instead of calling? Wondering if that works better during these technical issues.
I tried the mobile app yesterday when I was having the same zip code problem and it gave me the same error! So frustrating. But based on what Zainab said about the system update, it should hopefully be working by now. I'm going to try both the app and calling again this evening. If you're still having trouble tomorrow, definitely call your county office directly - that seems to be the backup solution everyone's recommending here.
I'm having the exact same problem! Been trying to reset my EBT password since yesterday and keep getting that zip code error. It's so stressful when you need to access your benefits and the system won't cooperate. Based on what everyone's saying here about the system update, I'm hoping it gets resolved soon. In the meantime, I'm going to try some of the suggestions like entering the zip code really slowly and maybe trying the zip+4 format. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - at least I know I'm not going crazy and it's not just me!
You're definitely not going crazy! I'm a newcomer here but I'm dealing with the exact same issue. It's really reassuring to see so many people experiencing this and getting helpful advice from community members like Zainab who actually work in the system. I'm going to try the slow zip code entry method that Carter suggested, and if that doesn't work, I'll wait until this evening since it sounds like the system update should be resolved by then. Thanks everyone for making this less stressful by sharing your experiences!
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Great news! When you get your new card, remember to activate it right away through the automated system. Also, for future reference, you can check your EBT balance and transaction history anytime by calling the number on your card or through the ConnectEBT mobile app. The app is really helpful for monitoring your account regularly.
So glad you were able to get it resolved quickly! That must have been such a relief to hear that no benefits were used. Just wanted to add that if you haven't already, it's also a good idea to check if your county has any local EBT replacement programs - some counties can issue emergency replacement cards same-day if you visit their office in person. Might be worth knowing for the future. Also, once you get your new card, consider writing down the customer service number somewhere safe at home so you'll have it even if your card gets lost again. Hope the rest of your month goes smoothly!
That's really helpful to know about the emergency replacement cards! I had no idea some counties could do same-day replacements. I'll definitely look into what my county offers and write down that customer service number somewhere safe at home. Thank you for the extra tips - this whole experience has taught me I need to be more prepared for situations like this!
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Just wanted to add another resource that might help - check with your local United Way chapter! They often have emergency assistance funds specifically for families dealing with unsafe housing conditions. When I was in a similar situation with my kids a couple years ago, our local United Way provided $800 towards moving costs when I explained the health issues. They work pretty quickly too - I got approved within a week. You can find your local chapter at 211.org or just dial 2-1-1. Also, don't forget to ask your current landlord IN WRITING to fix the mold issue and keep copies of everything - if they refuse, that documentation will help with any emergency assistance applications. You're doing everything right by advocating for your kids' health!
This is such great advice about United Way! I had no idea they helped with moving costs. I'm definitely going to call them today along with all the other programs people have mentioned. And you're absolutely right about getting everything in writing from my landlord - I've been asking verbally but haven't documented it properly. I'll send an email today requesting mold remediation and keep copies of his response (or lack of response). It's amazing how this community has given me a whole action plan when I felt completely stuck before. Thank you for adding another resource to my list!
Also wanted to mention that if you're in Los Angeles County, they have something called the Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) that can help with security deposits for families relocating due to health hazards. Even if you're not in LA, most counties have similar programs under different names. When you call, use the keywords "emergency relocation due to health hazard" - that seems to unlock different funding streams than just asking for general moving help. I learned this the hard way after initially being told there was no help available, then getting connected to the right program when I used those specific words. The system is confusing but there really is help out there if you know how to ask for it!
Those keywords are so important - "emergency relocation due to health hazard"! I never would have thought to phrase it that way but it makes total sense that different wording opens up different funding. I'm not in LA County but I'll definitely use those exact words when I call around. It's frustrating that we have to know the "magic words" to access help, but I'm grateful you shared this tip! I'm making a list of all the specific phrases people have mentioned here so I don't forget them when I'm on the phone. This whole thread has been like a masterclass in navigating the system. Thank you for sharing what you learned the hard way!
Ava Thompson
I'm really sorry this happened to you - EBT theft is becoming way too common and it's such a violation when you're already struggling. One thing I wanted to add that might help immediately: if you have any family or friends who can lend you some cash for groceries while you wait, CalFresh allows you to pay them back once your benefits are restored. I know it's hard to ask for help, but most people understand this kind of emergency. Also, check if your kids' school has a weekend backpack program or if they can get free breakfast/lunch even during breaks - many Oakland schools continue meal programs during holidays. The Salvation Army on International Blvd also does emergency food boxes and they're really fast about it. You shouldn't have to wait weeks to feed your family while the system sorts this out. Sending you strength - you've got this!
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CosmicCadet
•Wait, I'm confused - are you responding to your own post? Your member ID is the same as the original poster (Ava Thompson). Just wanted to make sure this wasn't a mistake or if maybe you meant to post an update instead of a comment? Either way, the advice about asking family/friends for temporary help and checking school meal programs is really solid. Hope you're able to get some immediate relief while waiting for the county to sort out your benefits replacement!
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NeonNova
I'm so sorry you're going through this - EBT theft is absolutely devastating when you have a family to feed. Since you're in Oakland, I wanted to share some immediate resources that might help while you're waiting for your benefits to be replaced. The Alameda County Social Services Agency has an emergency food assistance program that can provide same-day help for families with children - their Oakland office is at 1925 San Pablo Ave and they're usually pretty responsive to EBT theft cases. Also, St. Mary's Center on Jefferson Street does emergency food distribution and they specifically help families in crisis situations like yours. You can call them at (510) 834-9455 and explain your situation. The most important thing right now is getting that police report and getting to your county office ASAP - but please don't let your kids go hungry while you're fighting the bureaucracy. These theft cases are happening so frequently that most local organizations are very familiar with the situation and want to help bridge the gap. Stay strong!
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