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!

One more thing that might help - if you're nervous about your first shopping trip, consider going during off-peak hours (like mid-morning or early afternoon on weekdays) when stores are less crowded. That way you can take your time figuring out the card reader without feeling rushed. Also, some stores have self-checkout that accepts EBT if you prefer that option! The process is the same - swipe, enter PIN, select "food" - but you can go at your own pace. Good luck with your first shopping trip!

Hey Astrid! Just wanted to add that when you call to set up your PIN, write down the customer service number from the back of your card and keep it somewhere safe. You'll need it if you ever forget your PIN or need to check your balance. Also, some grocery stores have little signs by the card readers showing which payment types they accept - look for the EBT logo so you know you're at the right checkout lane. The whole process gets super easy once you do it the first time, so don't worry! And definitely ignore your neighbor's "sun bucks" terminology - that's not a thing, but it gave me a good chuckle! 😊

Just wanted to share something that helped me when I first got my CalFresh card - don't be afraid to ask the cashier for help if you get stuck! I was so worried about holding up the line, but honestly most cashiers are really patient and will walk you through it. Also, if for some reason your card gets declined on your first try, it's usually just because you entered the PIN wrong or didn't select the right payment option - don't panic, just try again. The system can be a little finicky sometimes but it's not personal. You're taking advantage of a program that's there to help you, so hold your head high and don't let anyone make you feel bad about using your benefits. We've all been there!

Just to add one more helpful tip - if you're planning to do a big grocery shopping trip, consider calling ahead to check your balance or using the EBT app to make sure you have enough benefits loaded. Sometimes there can be delays in when your monthly benefits get added to your card, especially if it's your first month. Also, keep your receipt after shopping! It will show your remaining balance, which is super handy for planning your next grocery trip. And don't worry about the "sun bucks" thing - honestly, EBT cards have had so many different names over the years that older folks sometimes mix them up. What matters is that you have your benefits and you know how to use them now!

Hey Astrid! I just wanted to chime in with one more thing that might be helpful - when you're ready to go shopping, bring a backup payment method (cash or debit card) just in case there are any technical issues with your EBT card on your first trip. Sometimes the card readers at stores can be temperamental, and it's nice to have peace of mind knowing you can still get your groceries if needed. Also, if you have a smartphone, download the "FreshEBT" app - it's a third-party app that makes it super easy to check your balance without having to call the customer service number every time. And honestly, don't worry too much about your neighbor's "sun bucks" terminology - older generations sometimes have their own nicknames for these things. What's important is that you're getting the help you need! Welcome to the CalFresh program and don't hesitate to ask if you have any other questions.