Does a locked EBT card in the mobile app prevent benefits from being deposited? (CalFresh/EBT Edge app issue)

The lock feature in the EBT Edge app only stops purchases from being made with your card, it doesn't prevent benefits from being deposited into your account. Your CalFresh benefits will still be added to your account on your regular issuance date, even if the card is locked. The lock is just a security feature to prevent unauthorized transactions if your card is lost or stolen. You can keep it locked until you're ready to use it!

when i locked my card last yr i still got my calfresh deposted but couldnt use it till i unlocked it in the app. just remmber to unlock before u go shopping lol

I work for a community assistance organization that helps people with benefit issues, and I can confirm what others have said. Locking your EBT card in the Edge app is just like putting a security freeze on a credit card - it prevents purchases but doesn't affect deposits. Your benefits will be deposited on schedule. One thing to be aware of: sometimes people have trouble unlocking their cards in the app due to technical glitches. If that happens, you may need to call the EBT customer service number on the back of your card. They can unlock it manually over the phone. I'd suggest testing the unlock function before you need to use your card, just to make sure everything works correctly.

I had this EXACT same situation in February and let me tell you, it was a NIGHTMARE but NOT because of the lock! The benefits deposited fine with the card locked, but when I tried to unlock it, the app kept crashing!!! I ended up having to call the EBT customer service line and was on hold for OVER TWO HOURS before I gave up. Called again the next day, same thing. Literally couldn't buy groceries for 3 days even though the money was there!!!

Just to clarify some technical aspects about the EBT Edge app and CalFresh benefits: 1. Benefit deposits and card security are handled by separate systems. Locking your card only affects the ability to make purchases. 2. CalFresh benefits are deposited automatically on your scheduled date (usually the same day each month based on the last digit of your case number). 3. The lock feature is client-controlled security that you can toggle on/off as needed. 4. If you ever have trouble with the app, you can always call the EBT customer service number (1-877-328-9677) to unlock your card. Hope this helps ease your concerns about your upcoming deposit!

This is one thing the EBT Edge app actually does right! I've had sooooo many problems with that glitchy app, but the card lock feature works pretty well. Your benefits will deposit just fine. I lock mine whenever I'm not actively shopping just for extra security.

Anyone else notice that sometimes the EBT Edge app shows the wrong balance after benefits are deposited? Last month my CalFresh went in but the app still showed my old balance for like 12 hours. I panicked thinking I didn't get my benefits, but when I checked later it was updated. Their system is so unreliable!

I just want to add my experience from last month - I had my card locked for almost a week because I thought someone might have seen my PIN at the grocery store. My benefits still deposited right on schedule (the 3rd of the month for me). The deposit system is completely separate from the card lock feature, so you're totally fine! One small tip: I noticed that sometimes after unlocking the card, it takes a few minutes for the unlock to actually take effect at store terminals. So if you unlock it right before shopping and it gets declined, wait like 5-10 minutes and try again before panicking. Saved me an embarrassing moment at checkout!

I've been using the EBT Edge app for about a year now and can definitely confirm what everyone else is saying - locking your card won't affect your benefit deposits at all! I actually keep mine locked most of the time as a security precaution, especially after hearing stories about benefit theft. Your CalFresh will deposit on schedule tomorrow regardless of the lock status. Just wanted to add that if you're ever unsure about your balance or deposit status, you can also check by calling the automated phone line on the back of your card (it's usually faster than waiting for the app to update). The automated system is available 24/7 and gives you real-time balance info without having to wait on hold for a representative.

I've been through this exact situation multiple times and can definitely put your mind at ease! The card lock feature only prevents transactions from being processed - it doesn't interfere with benefit deposits at all. Think of it like putting a freeze on your debit card vs. your employer still being able to direct deposit your paycheck. Two completely separate systems. Your CalFresh benefits will absolutely deposit tomorrow as scheduled. I actually recommend keeping your card locked when you're not actively using it - it's become a habit for me after hearing too many horror stories about benefit theft. Just remember to unlock it before you go shopping, and as others mentioned, give it a few minutes after unlocking before trying to use it at a store terminal. The county offices can be frustrating to reach, but for future reference, the EBT customer service line (on the back of your card) is usually your best bet for card-related issues. They're available 24/7 and can help with unlocking if the app ever gives you trouble.