This is such valuable information everyone is sharing! I'm relatively new to receiving CalFresh benefits and honestly had no idea these scams were so widespread. Reading through all these experiences is both terrifying and incredibly helpful. What really strikes me is how sophisticated these scammers have become - spoofing official numbers, using the right terminology, and knowing exactly how to manipulate people by threatening to freeze benefits. It's disgusting that they're targeting people who are already in vulnerable financial situations. I'm definitely going to download the ebtEDGE app right after this and set up those transaction alerts that several people mentioned. I've been one of those people who only checks their balance when shopping, which I now realize is way too risky. One question for those who have dealt with this - should we also be worried about text message scams? I've gotten some weird texts lately claiming to be from various government agencies, but nothing specifically about EBT yet. Are the scammers using texts too or mostly just phone calls? Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and tips. This community is amazing for looking out for each other like this!

This thread is incredibly eye-opening! I've been receiving CalFresh for about a year now and thankfully haven't gotten any of these scam calls yet, but reading everyone's experiences has me really concerned about how sophisticated these criminals are getting. The fact that they're spoofing official DPSS numbers and using such convincing language is terrifying. I can totally see how people would fall for this, especially when they threaten to freeze your benefits - that would send anyone into panic mode when you're relying on that assistance to feed your family. I'm immediately going to: 1. Download the ebtEDGE app and set up all those transaction alerts 2. Save the real fraud hotline number (800-349-9970) in my phone 3. Write down the legitimate EBT customer service number from the back of my card 4. Share this information with my sister who also receives benefits It's so messed up that scammers are specifically targeting vulnerable people who depend on government assistance. Thank you to everyone who shared their experiences and practical tips - this is exactly the kind of information that helps protect our community. I'll definitely be more vigilant now and will report any suspicious calls or texts immediately.

I was on GR for 9 months last year and it SUCKED. they make u do these stupid job search forms every week and if u miss ONE appointment they cut u off for like 30 days as "penalty" 🙄 calfresh is way less drama just fill out the SAR7 every 6 months and recert once a year

Just wanted to add that you should definitely apply for CalFresh through BenefitsCal online if possible - it's way faster than going to the office in person. You can upload all your documents right there and track your application status. Since you have no income and only $300 in savings, you'll almost certainly qualify for expedited service (benefits within 3 days). Also, that $400 you're paying your sister absolutely counts as a shelter expense! Make sure to mention it because it increases your benefit amount. The county worker should help you figure out what documentation you need for that. Don't let the system overwhelm you - you're asking all the right questions and it sounds like you'll qualify for both programs. Good luck with your applications!

UPDATE: I finally logged into BenefitsCal and found a notice from January that I somehow missed. Turns out it IS that new California Supplemental Nutrition Benefit because I have a child under 6! It said this is ongoing as long as I remain eligible and my son is still under 6. Thanks everyone for your help! Sometimes the system actually works lol

So glad you figured it out! This is exactly why I always tell people to check their BenefitsCal messages regularly - they send important notices there that are easy to miss. The California Supplemental Nutrition Benefit is a great program but they really need to do better at explaining it upfront. For anyone else reading this - if you have kids under 6, are over 60, or have a disability in your household, you might be eligible for this extra benefit too. It's not temporary like the old emergency allotments were, it's an ongoing program as long as you meet the criteria.

the whole system is designed to wear you down so you give up. they make it impossible to reach anyone and when you finally do they tell you that you filled out the wrong form or are missing some obscure document. i waited 11 WEEKS to get approved for emergency assistance and by then i'd already had to sleep in my car with my kid for a month. hate to be negative but prepare yourself for a battle

UPDATE: I wanted to let everyone know what's happened. I tried calling the county office all morning yesterday with no luck. Finally used that Claimyr service someone mentioned, and they got me through to an Emergency Response worker! The worker took all our info and said we qualify for temporary housing assistance while our full CalWORKs application is processed. They're sending us paperwork today and said we might be able to get help with the hotel for up to 16 days while we look for something permanent. They're also connecting us with a housing navigator who can help us find an apartment that will work with our budget. I'm still stressed but at least feel like we have some options now. Thank you all for your advice!

Just wanted to add another option that's been a lifesaver for me - if you have an iPhone, you can add your EBT balance as a widget to your home screen using the ConnectEBT app. Once you're logged in, go to your widgets and add the ConnectEBT widget. It shows your current balance right on your phone's home screen without even having to open the app! Super convenient when you're at the store and need a quick glance at your balance. Android might have something similar but I'm not sure since I use iPhone. Has anyone tried setting this up on Android?

Another quick tip that's saved me tons of time - most major grocery chains now have their own apps that let you check your EBT balance if you link your card. I use the Safeway app and it shows my balance right in there along with digital coupons and store deals. Target's app does this too if you have a Target nearby. The nice thing about using the store apps is you can check your balance AND browse deals/plan your shopping all in one place. Plus they usually load faster than the dedicated EBT apps since the stores have better servers. Worth checking if your regular grocery store has this feature!