EBT card finally arrived but says 'number doesn't match any benefit' - can't activate despite seeing monthly deposits!

This is actually a pretty common issue with replacement EBT cards in California. When you request a new card, sometimes the system generates a new card number but doesn't automatically link it to your existing benefits. The deposits you're seeing are still attached to your old card number in their system. You need to speak directly with a CalFresh eligibility worker who can manually link your new card to your existing benefit account. Unfortunately, getting through on the phone is notoriously difficult, but keep trying the county office. Specifically ask for an "EBT card linkage" when you get through.

u should check if the card is actully from calfresh n not a scam card. my cousin got a fake card in mail once that looked real but wasnt. call the main ebt customer service at 877-328-9677 not the number on the card just to make sure

I had the EXACT same problem last year! It was so frustrating. The issue is that when they issue a replacement card, they're supposed to cancel the old card and transfer the benefits, but sometimes they just issue a new card without doing the transfer. Only a county worker can fix it, and you MUST speak to a real person. After trying for days with no luck, I used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to a real person at my county office in about 20 minutes. They have a demo video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. It was the only way I could get my card issue fixed without waiting weeks for an in-person appointment.

This sounds like what we call an "unlinked card" issue. When your online account shows deposits but your physical card won't activate, it means your benefits are sitting in an account that's not connected to your physical card. Here's what you need to do: 1. Contact your county office and specifically request to speak with an EBT card specialist or EBT liaison 2. Tell them you need an "account linkage" for your EBT card 3. Have your case number, new card number, and identity verification ready If you can't get through by phone, you can go to the physical office without an appointment and request an emergency same-day meeting. Under California regulations, EBT card issues affecting access to benefits qualify for expedited service. Bring ID and your new card. They should be able to fix this while you wait.

omg the EXACT same thing happened to me!!! So frustrating!! I had to go to the office in person and wait for like 5 hours but they fixed it that day. bring the card and your ID and they can link it right there. they told me sometimes the system doesn't automatically link new cards to existing accounts. good luck!!!!

Has anyone considered that maybe the OP's benefits might have been discontinued? If you missed your SAR7 or annual recertification, they stop your benefits but the system still shows the deposit history. OP, when was your last SAR7 due? Also check BenefitsCal to see if there are any notices or tasks you might have missed. Just a thought before you go through all the trouble of trying to get the card linked.

This COUNTY SYSTEM IS COMPLETELY BROKEN!!! I had the same problem last year and spent WEEKS trying to get it fixed! They expect people to STARVE while they sort out their technical issues?? The EBT vendor (Fidelity Information Services) and county databases don't communicate properly, and WE suffer. I finally had to have my state assemblymember's office contact them before anyone would help me. THE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO MAKE US GIVE UP!!! Don't let them win!!!

Quick update: I just got through to my county office using the Claimyr service that someone mentioned above. It worked exactly as they said. The worker confirmed this was an unlinked card issue and fixed it on the spot. My benefits are now available! Going shopping tomorrow. Thanks everyone for your help!

I went through this same nightmare last month! It's such a common problem that I'm honestly shocked they haven't fixed the system yet. Here's what worked for me: I called the EBT customer service line (877-328-9677) first thing in the morning around 8 AM when they open - you have a much better chance of getting through early. When I explained I had an "unlinked replacement card," they were able to transfer me directly to someone who could fix it. The whole call took about 45 minutes but they linked my card immediately. Also, make sure you write down the reference number they give you in case you need to call back! It's ridiculous that we have to jump through all these hoops when we're already struggling, but don't give up - your benefits are there waiting for you!