So glad you were able to get your card deactivated and a new one issued right away! That's exactly the right first step. Just wanted to add that while you're waiting for the CF 303 to be processed, you might also want to document everything - like take photos of your transaction history showing the fraudulent charges, keep copies of all forms you submit, and write down the names of any workers you speak with and when. This creates a paper trail that can really help speed things up if there are any issues with your claim. Also, some counties have special emergency food vouchers they can issue while fraud claims are being processed, so it's worth asking about that too. Hoping you get your benefits restored quickly!

I'm so sorry this happened to you - EBT card theft is unfortunately becoming way too common and it's especially stressful when you have kids to feed. I went through something similar last year and wanted to share a few additional tips that helped me: First, when you call to check on your CF 303 status, ask them to email you confirmation of when they received your form and what the expected processing timeline is - this gives you something in writing to reference. Second, if you haven't already, consider signing up for text alerts for your EBT balance so you'll know immediately if there are any suspicious transactions in the future. And finally, while you're waiting for the benefits to be restored, don't forget that many food banks don't require any paperwork or long waits - you can usually just show up and get emergency food assistance the same day. Wishing you the best and hoping your benefits get restored quickly!

Wow, this thread has been such a lifesaver! I just got approved for CalFresh last Friday and was planning to set up the mobile app this weekend. Reading through everyone's experiences has completely changed my approach - I had no idea there were so many potential technical issues that could cause registration to fail. The information about verification flags from name changes, incorrect ZIP+4 codes, and data mismatches in their system is incredibly valuable. I especially appreciate learning about the Claimyr service for getting through to county offices without waiting on hold forever - that sounds like it could save hours of frustration! And knowing about ConnectEBT as a backup option gives me a solid plan B. It's both reassuring and frustrating to learn that most of these registration failures are system issues rather than user error. I'm going to make sure to verify all my information is exactly correct in their database before attempting registration. Thanks to everyone for sharing such detailed troubleshooting advice - this community is amazing for helping newcomers navigate these complex systems!

As someone who just joined this community and is waiting for my CalFresh application to be processed, this entire thread has been incredibly eye-opening! I had no idea that setting up the mobile app could involve so many potential technical hurdles. Reading through everyone's experiences, it's clear that most registration issues stem from system-side problems rather than user error, which is both frustrating and reassuring. The variety of potential issues is remarkable - verification flags from name changes, ZIP+4 code mismatches, incorrect birthdates in their database, account locks from authorized representatives, and even timing issues with new card activations. These are all things I never would have thought to check on my own. I'm definitely bookmarking the Claimyr service recommendation that multiple people have mentioned - the idea of getting through to a real person in 10 minutes instead of waiting hours on hold (or getting disconnected) sounds amazing. And knowing about ConnectEBT as a backup option is really valuable. Thanks to everyone who shared their detailed troubleshooting experiences and solutions. This community is incredibly helpful for preparing newcomers for these system quirks. When my benefits get approved, I'll be much better equipped to handle any app registration issues that might come up!

I'm new to this community but wanted to share what I learned recently - if your dad likes Chinese food, several local Chinese restaurants in Sacramento participate in RMP but aren't always on the official lists. Golden Dragon on Stockton Blvd and China Wall on Freeport both accept EBT for hot meals. I discovered this by accident when I saw someone else using their EBT card there! The staff knew exactly how to process it. Also, some gas stations with hot food counters (like certain Arco AM/PM locations) participate too, which can be convenient for quick hot meals. It's frustrating how scattered the information is, but word-of-mouth from other EBT users has been more helpful than any official source.

This thread has been so helpful! I'm dealing with a similar situation with my elderly mother who has mobility issues. One thing I wanted to add is that some McDonald's locations in Sacramento do participate in RMP, but you have to specifically ask for a manager because regular employees often don't know about it. The one on Florin Road near 65th Street definitely accepts it - I used it there last week without any issues. Also, for anyone struggling with the phone system, I've found that calling right when they open (8 AM) gives you the best chance of getting through. The lines get jammed later in the day. And if you do get through, ask them to email you the vendor list instead of mailing it - it's faster and you can save it on your phone to reference when you're out. One last tip: some participating restaurants will have a small "EBT Accepted" sticker near their entrance or register, but it's not always obvious. Don't be afraid to ask before ordering - most places are understanding about it, especially if you explain it's for the Restaurant Meals Program.

Congrats on getting approved! Just wanted to add that you can also check if your local grocery stores have any CalFresh incentive programs. Some stores like Whole Foods and certain independent markets offer 10% discounts on produce when you use EBT. Also, if you're ever unsure about what you can buy with CalFresh (like whether energy drinks or prepared foods are covered), there's a good USDA app called "SNAP Retailer Locator" that also has info about eligible items. Welcome to the program - it really does help with food security!

Congratulations on getting approved! I remember that same panic when I first got my CalFresh approval letter - the wording really is confusing. Everyone here is absolutely right that your benefits roll over month to month and don't expire for 274 days. I've been on CalFresh for about a year now and I usually have a small balance that carries over each month, which actually helps me budget better. One thing I wish someone had told me early on is to sign up for text alerts through the BenefitsCal app - they'll notify you when your monthly benefits are deposited and remind you about important deadlines like your SAR7 report. Makes managing everything so much easier!

Oof, been there done that. It's a pain to get back on track but don't give up! Once you get through to someone, ask about expedited benefits if you're in a tough spot. Hang in there! 💪

Check if your county has a CalFresh hotline or chat feature on their website - sometimes those are faster than the main phone line. Also, when you do get through, ask them to note in your case that you never received the SAR 7 notice. Some counties have policies for "good cause" exceptions when notifications aren't received. Don't let them brush you off - you have rights as a recipient!