CalFresh benefits stuck after system migration - can't access February 2025 funds despite active status

omg YES!! same boat here!! my case didnt transfer either but they didnt say anything about confidential status. just that i was 'part of a small percentage that didnt migrate properly' whatever that means. its been 9 days no benefits. single mom 2 kids. this is ridiculous

I work for a community organization that helps people with benefits, and we're seeing this issue a lot right now. The system migration has created several problems, with the 'confidential' status being one of the most difficult to resolve quickly. This typically happens when your case was ever flagged for special handling (domestic violence protections, former foster youth, etc.). The new system doesn't properly recognize these cases. Call your county office again and specifically request an "emergency benefit issuance" due to system error. They can issue a temporary card or benefit while they fix the migration issue. Make sure to mention you have a child in the home as this qualifies you for expedited service.

They did the same system upgrade in my county last year and it was a NIGHTMARE!!! Took them almost 3 weeks to fix my benefits. Food banks helped in the meantime.

Try using Claimyr to get through to an actual CalFresh supervisor instead of just the frontline workers. I was in a similar situation (though mine was a verification issue, not the system migration). Regular workers kept giving me the runaround, but when I got to a supervisor they fixed it same day. Claimyr got me through to someone in about 20 minutes after I'd been trying for days on my own. There's a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8 and their site is claimyr.com - totally worth it when you're desperate to get your benefits fixed.

I've been dealing with this exact situation. My case was marked confidential years ago due to a domestic violence situation, but that was resolved long ago. The new system apparently can't handle any cases with special coding properly. What worked for me: I requested an emergency benefits issuance due to administrative error (very specific wording is important). They can issue emergency benefits within 3 days while they work on fixing the system issue. I also filed a formal complaint with the state oversight office by calling 1-800-952-5253. Magically, my regular benefits appeared two days after filing the complaint. Don't just wait for them to figure it out - be proactive!

I dont get why they even need to do these system upgrades if they cant do them right!!! its our FOOD they're messing with!!! not some optional thing!!

I used to work at a county office (retired in 2023). The "confidential" status is usually part of the CAPI (Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants), former foster youth, or domestic violence protections. It limits which workers can view your full case details for privacy reasons. During system migrations, these specially coded cases often require manual transfer. Unfortunately, they're usually last in line because they need specialized handling. If you need immediate help, ask specifically for a "manual override emergency issuance." This is different from regular emergency benefits and doesn't count against your yearly benefits. A supervisor needs to approve it, but they can load your EBT card within 24-48 hours while the system issues are resolved. Also request that they verify if your confidential status is still necessary. If not, removing it might help prevent future issues.

Just want to add - make sure you're ready with your case number, ID, and your child's information when you call. For emergency issuances, they may need to verify your identity again since they're essentially creating a workaround in the system. And don't hesitate to mention the hardship this is causing - be specific about having a child without food, empty cabinets, etc. This helps prioritize your case.

UPDATE: I called this morning using the advice here and it WORKED! I asked specifically for a supervisor and requested a "manual override emergency issuance" due to the system migration error. They verified my identity, confirmed my case was flagged as confidential due to former foster youth status, and processed an emergency benefits issuance that should be on my card within 24 hours! The supervisor also said they're working on fixing the system migration issue for all affected cases and mine should be fully resolved by next week. THANK YOU all for the advice - it truly saved me from having to borrow more money for groceries.