EBT card fraudulently used in San Bernardino - can I get my stolen CalFresh benefits back?

same happened to me last month!! call the EBT customer service IMMEDIATELY at 877-328-9677 to report it stolen. they can freeze ur account right away so no more gets taken. u only have 10 days to report the theft for replacement benefits.

You need to act quickly on this. Here's the exact process to follow for EBT theft: 1. Call EBT Customer Service (877-328-9677) immediately to report unauthorized transactions and freeze your card 2. File a CF 303 form with your county office - this is the "Request for Replacement" form specifically for stolen EBT benefits 3. Provide any evidence you have that you were not in San Bernardino when the transactions occurred 4. Request a new EBT card - they'll deactivate your current one California has a fairly good policy for replacing stolen benefits, but timing is critical. You must report within 10 days of discovering the theft, and they can investigate transactions from the past 90 days. The county should process your request within 10 days of filing the CF 303. I recommend also filing a police report as supporting documentation.

I went through this EXACT situation in December. Almost identical - they got $220 from my card at an ATM in Fontana (right next to San Bernardino). Here's what happened: I filed all the paperwork, and they initially DENIED my claim saying I must have shared my PIN!!! I was furious. I had to appeal and provide proof I was actually at work when the transaction happened. It took 6 weeks but I eventually got my benefits back. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING. Take screenshots of your transaction history showing the suspicious withdrawal. If you have any way to prove you weren't in San Bernardino at that time (work schedule, receipts from elsewhere, etc) include that too. These skimming scams are getting SO common with EBT cards because they don't have the same security chips as regular debit cards. It's ridiculous they make us jump through hoops when WE are the victims!

this happens all the time now its so messed up. my cousin had her whole months benefits stolen and her kids went hungry. the system is broke af

I work with CalFresh recipients regularly, and unfortunately EBT skimming has become extremely common. Here's what you need to know about replacement benefits: - California does have a process for replacing stolen benefits (some states don't) - You must file form CF 303 within 10 days of discovering the theft - Benefits can only be replaced once they're actually stolen (not preemptively) - They can replace benefits stolen within the last 90 days - You may need to provide evidence you didn't authorize the transactions One piece of advice: when you get your new card, change your PIN to something completely different and not tied to personal info (birthdays, etc). Also, check your balance frequently to catch fraud early. Some of our clients have had success getting through to their county EBT fraud department faster using Claimyr (claimyr.com). They connect you directly to a live person instead of waiting on hold for hours. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. Several people mentioned it cuts down the wait time significantly when dealing with EBT theft issues.

Yes, filing a police report is extremely helpful for EBT theft claims. It adds credibility to your case and shows you're taking formal action. The fact that you were in San Bernardino earlier but not at the time of the fraud actually helps your case - you can show the timeline discrepancy. One important tip: when you use your replacement EBT card, consider these security practices: 1. Always inspect the card reader for skimming devices before inserting your card 2. Cover the keypad when entering your PIN 3. Try to use your EBT at major retailers rather than smaller stores when possible 4. Check your balance after each transaction through the app 5. Consider withdrawing your monthly benefits in fewer, larger transactions Also, when you submit your CF 303, include a detailed written statement explaining your whereabouts. The more specific details you provide, the stronger your case will be.

btw if ur worried about this happening again u can actually turn ur EBT card on/off in the app now!!! i only turn mine on when im literally at the store about to pay then turn it right back off. its under card settings in the connectEBT app

I'm actually a volunteer at the food bank in San Bernardino County, and we've seen a huge increase in families needing emergency food because of EBT theft. While you're waiting for your benefits to be replaced, please know there are resources that can help. Most food banks don't require extensive documentation for emergency situations like this. Just bring your EBT card and explain what happened. There's also a specific emergency food program for CalFresh recipients who experience benefit theft - ask your caseworker about it when you file your CF 303 form.

UPDATE: I just got off the phone with the EBT Fraud Department (finally!) and asked specifically about San Bernardino skimming cases. The representative told me they're seeing a HUGE spike in fraud cases from that area - apparently there's an organized group installing skimmers at certain stores. She actually gave me some helpful info: They're expediting claims for victims of this specific fraud ring, and are working with USDA on a special process. Ask your caseworker to check if your case matches the "San Bernardino County January 2025 Skimming Pattern" in their system. If it does, they can fast-track your replacement! I'm going to try this with my claim too since mine happened in a neighboring area. Will let you know if it works!

I'm so sorry this happened to you! EBT fraud is becoming such a widespread problem. As someone who works in social services, I want to add a few important points to what others have shared: 1. Document EVERYTHING - take photos of your transaction history, save receipts from where you actually were when the fraud occurred, and keep records of all your phone calls with EBT customer service. 2. When you file the CF 303 form, you can actually submit it online through your county's portal in most cases - you don't necessarily need to go in person. Check your county's website or call to confirm. 3. If your initial claim gets denied (which unfortunately happens sometimes), don't give up! You have the right to appeal and request a hearing. Many legitimate claims get approved on appeal. 4. While waiting for resolution, ask your caseworker about emergency food assistance programs. Some counties have specific protocols for EBT theft victims. The good news is that California's replacement policy is actually better than many states. Stay persistent and keep following up. Your kids deserve to eat and you deserve to get your stolen benefits back!