Can I change my CalFresh EBT PIN on weekends or after hours?
I need to change my EBT PIN ASAP because I think someone might have gotten ahold of it. My neighbor was acting weird when I used it at the store yesterday and I'm pretty sure they were watching me type it in. I tried calling the customer service number but didn't know if they handle PIN changes on weekends. Does anyone know if I can change my CalFresh EBT PIN on Saturday or Sunday? Or is this something that can only be done during normal business hours? Really don't want to wait until Monday because I just got my benefits loaded yesterday and I'm worried they'll be gone by then. Also is there a website where I can change it instead of calling? Thanks!!
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A Man D Mortal
Yes, you can absolutely change your EBT PIN 24/7, including weekends! The EBT customer service line operates around the clock specifically for situations like yours. Call 1-877-328-9677 right away and follow the automated prompts to change your PIN. You don't even need to speak with a representative. Alternatively, you can also change your PIN online through the EBT cardholder portal at www.ebt.ca.gov if you've previously set up an account. I'd recommend doing this immediately if you're concerned about unauthorized access.
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Zadie Patel
•THANK YOU!!!! I'm going to call right now!! Do I need my card number or anything? I have it with me just in case.
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Declan Ramirez
yea u can change it anytime my sister had 2 do that last month when her kid gave out the pin # to her ex lol. just call the # on the back of ur card
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Emma Morales
I had this same problem and changed my PIN last Sunday night! The automated system works 24/7. But make sure you pick a PIN that's not obvious - I used to use my birthday and someone figured it out.
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Zadie Patel
•Good advice! I'm definitely not using anything obvious this time. My old PIN was the last 4 digits of my phone number which was probably too easy to guess.
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Katherine Hunter
While the other responses about changing your PIN are correct, I wanted to add some additional security information that might help you. If you suspect someone has your PIN, you should also check your EBT account transaction history right away to see if there are any unauthorized transactions. If you do find any, you need to report it to your county CalFresh office as soon as possible on Monday. Unfortunately, unlike credit cards, EBT fraud can be harder to resolve and you might not get those benefits back, which is why changing your PIN immediately is so important. Also, whenever you enter your PIN at a store, always shield the keypad with your other hand. Some stores have cameras overhead or people can watch from a distance. Stay safe!
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Zadie Patel
•Oh no, I didn't even think about checking for unauthorized transactions! Just looked at my balance and thankfully it's still all there. I've changed my PIN now. Definitely going to be more careful at the store from now on. Thanks for the advice!
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Lucas Parker
I HATE how the system works!!! Last year someone got my PIN somehow and drained my entire account ($950!!!) while I was sleeping. Called EBT customer service and they said I had to file a police report and go through this whole investigation. Took TWO MONTHS to get my benefits back and only after I kept calling and calling the county office. They make it nearly impossible to talk to anyone and the whole time my kids were hungry!!!!
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Donna Cline
•That's terrible! Have you tried using Claimyr when you need to reach the county workers? It's saved me so much time. I used to spend hours trying to get through on the phone, but with Claimyr, they call the county for you and call you back when they reach a real person. I used it last month when I had an issue with my SAR7 and got through in about 20 minutes instead of the usual 2-3 hours. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8
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Harper Collins
Can someone explain the difference between the EBT customer service line and the CalFresh office? I always get confused about which one to call for what problems. I know the EBT line handles PIN changes and lost cards, but what does the actual CalFresh county office handle?
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A Man D Mortal
•Great question! The EBT customer service line (1-877-328-9677) is specifically for card-related issues like: - Changing your PIN - Reporting lost/stolen cards - Checking your balance - Reviewing recent transactions - Card not working at stores Your county CalFresh office handles everything related to your actual benefits like: - Application status - Recertification questions - Reporting changes (income, household size, etc.) - SAR7 forms - Benefit amount questions or disputes - Verification document submission - General program questions Basically, card problems go to EBT customer service, and benefit/program questions go to your county office.
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Zadie Patel
Update: I called the number and changed my PIN successfully! It was actually really easy - the whole process took less than 2 minutes. Thanks everyone for your help! For anyone who might need this info in the future, you do need your card number and social security number to change your PIN through the automated system. The system is available 24/7 like everyone said.
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Emma Morales
•That's great! Glad it worked out for you. 👍
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Declan Ramirez
i had a weird thing happen once where i changed my pin and then it wouldnt work at the store even tho i KNOW i put it in right!!! had to call again and change it again. just a heads up that might happen
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Zadie Patel
•Thanks for the warning! I wrote down my new PIN so I won't forget it. Going to try using it tomorrow at the grocery store, so fingers crossed it works.
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