Do you need a PIN for EBT/CalFresh card or is it called 'sun bucks'?

Yes, you definitely need a PIN for your EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card which is what you use for CalFresh benefits. There's no such thing as a 'sun bucks card' officially - your neighbor is probably just using a nickname or confusing it with something else. When you first received your card, there should have been instructions to call a number to set up your PIN. If you didn't do that yet, call the number on the back of your card to set it up before trying to use it at the store. The card won't work without a PIN.

i think ur neighbor might be calling it sunshine card or golden state advantage card which was the old name for california ebt cards like years ago. but yeah its an ebt card for calfresh and u 100% need a pin, call the # on back to set it up

When I got my CalFresh card, I was so confused too! You absolutely need a PIN - it's a 4-digit number you choose when activating the card. Call the number on the back, follow the automated prompts, and you'll set up your PIN during that call. Once you do that, you can use it right away! No waiting period. And just so you know what to expect at checkout: you'll swipe the card, enter your PIN, and select "food" (not "cash"). Some stores have you do this before they start scanning groceries, some after. Don't be embarrassed - cashiers help people with EBT all day long!

SUN BUCKS?! LMAO that's a new one. Nah, it's an EBT card for your CalFresh (food stamps). Your neighbor is either messing with you or confused. And yes, you need a PIN - call the number on the back to set it up or you'll be standing there at checkout looking silly when it gets declined.

Not only do you need a PIN, but keep that PIN safe! If someone gets your card AND knows your PIN, they can use all your benefits. I learned this the hard way when my roommate "borrowed" my card. Called the EBT customer service and they basically said once benefits are used, they're gone - even if it wasn't you who used them. They don't replace stolen benefits, only stolen cards.

Just adding to what others have said - after you call to set up your PIN, I'd recommend checking your balance before going shopping. You can do this through the EBT app ("ConnectEBT" or "CalFresh Mobile"), the website, or by calling the number on the back of your card. This way you'll know exactly how much you have available to spend. And in case you're struggling with getting through on the phone to activate your card (sometimes the wait times are ridiculous), you might want to try Claimyr (claimyr.com). They have a service that helps you get through to EBT customer service without the long wait times. They have a video showing how it works here: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. I used it when I couldn't get through for 3 days straight and it saved me a lot of frustration.

also just fyi not everything is covered by calfresh. no hot prepared foods, no alcohol, no vitamins, no cleaning supplies. just actual groceries basically. i got embarrased my first time when half my cart didn't qualify lol

Welcome to using CalFresh benefits! Just to add a few more helpful tips that haven't been mentioned yet: when you're shopping, look for the "SNAP eligible" or "EBT" labels on store shelves - many stores mark these items to make it easier for you. Also, if you're shopping at farmers markets, many of them accept EBT and some even have matching programs where they'll give you extra dollars to spend on fresh produce! And don't stress about being new to this - the cashiers are used to helping people with EBT cards and won't judge you at all. You've got this!