Can't lock EBT card - Connect Edge app not working, need urgent help!

oh no thats terrible!! the app is always crashing for me 2. have u tried going to the website instead? sometimes u can log in there and lock the card. did u try calling the number on the back of ur card? theres a different number just for reporting lost/stolen cards i think

I tried the website but it says I need to verify my identity and then sends a code to my phone that never arrives... so frustrating! The number on the back of the card is the one I've been on hold with forever. I'll keep trying I guess.

The whole EBT system is GARBAGE!! My card got skimmed last year and it took THREE MONTHS to get that money back!! The county keeps pushing these stupid apps but none of them EVER work right. I've had problems with Connect Edge since they updated it last month. If you can get to an actual office go there in person - that's the only way anything ever gets done with CalFresh.

Three months?? That's insane. I can't wait that long - my kids need to eat. The closest office is 45 minutes away and I don't have a car right now. I'm going to try to borrow my neighbor's phone and see if the app works there.

Hey there, I work for a community organization that helps people with CalFresh issues. Here's what you need to do right away:\n\n1. Call the EBT Customer Service directly at 1-877-328-9677. This is the 24-hour fraud line specifically for card issues.\n\n2. Select the option for reporting a stolen card/fraud right away - this should get you through faster than the general questions line.\n\n3. If you're still having trouble getting through, try calling very early in the morning (6am) or late at night (after 10pm) when fewer people are calling.\n\n4. While you're waiting to get through, document the unauthorized transaction (date, time, amount, location) so you're prepared when you talk to someone.\n\nUnfortunately, the Connect Edge app has been having major issues since the 2025 system update. The good news is that if you report unauthorized transactions within 10 days, you have better protection under EBT regulations.

Thank you so much for this detailed info. I'll try the fraud line specifically. I didn't realize there was a different option for that. I've been selecting general questions when I call. I've written down all the transaction details too.

Have you tried using Claimyr to get through to EBT customer service? I was having the same issue last month trying to report unauthorized charges, and after being on hold forever I found this service at claimyr.com that got me through to a human in like 20 minutes. They have a video that shows how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. It saved me so much stress when I needed to get my card locked ASAP.

No, I've never heard of that! Thank you, I'll check it out right now. At this point I'll try anything to get this resolved before more money disappears.

I had a similar issue with the Connect Edge app last month. The app has been particularly problematic since the January 2025 system update. Here's the most efficient way to handle this:\n\n1. Call the EBT Card 24/7 Customer Service at 1-877-328-9677\n2. Immediately select option 2 (lost/stolen/fraud) rather than waiting in the general queue\n3. When connected, request:\n - An immediate card lock\n - Cancellation and replacement of your current card\n - A fraud claim for the unauthorized transaction\n\nBy law, they must send a replacement card within 3 business days, and you should receive provisional credit while they investigate the fraud claim. Be sure to ask for a confirmation number for your fraud report.\n\nAlso, once this is resolved, consider enabling text alerts for any future transactions so you'll know immediately if this happens again.

EXACTLY!! Always get a confirmation number for EVERYTHING with CalFresh/EBT! I learned that the hard way. They \

Update: I finally got through using the fraud option like you and others suggested! They locked my card immediately and are sending me a new one. They also opened a claim for the $87 transaction and said I should get provisional credit within 10 days. Got my confirmation number too. Thank you all so much for your help!

For anyone else experiencing this problem with the Connect Edge app in the future, the California Department of Social Services is aware of these technical issues. They're planning a major app update in June 2025, but until then, phone support remains the most reliable option for urgent card security issues.\n\nAs a client advocate, I've been collecting reports of app problems to share with CDSS. They've acknowledged that recent server migration has caused login problems for approximately 22% of users.\n\nOne important thing to note: CalFresh benefits are protected from electronic theft under state regulations, but you must report unauthorized transactions within 10 days to ensure full protection. Always document when you called, who you spoke with, and your confirmation number in case you need to reference it later.

Do you know if this applies to CalWorks benefits too? My sister had money stolen from her cash aid last month and shes still fighting to get it back...

Yes, CalWorks (cash aid) has similar protections, but the process is slightly different. For CalWorks fraud, she should contact her specific county office and ask for the