EBT card not working at ATMs - can't withdraw CalFresh cash benefits

same thing happening to me!! tried 2 atms and even the cash back option at walmart and nothing is working. thought my card was broken lol

This happens like every 3 months I swear. The county NEVER warns us when they're doing system maintenance. I bet if you call the EBT customer service line (not the county office) they'll tell you it's a "scheduled system update" or something. Try again after midnight, usually works by then.

I was having the same issue this morning! I called the EBT customer service number and after being on hold forever, they confirmed there's a system-wide issue with cash benefit withdrawals. They didn't give me an estimated fix time but said they're "working on it urgently." Just wanted to share so others don't waste time visiting multiple ATMs like I did. The rep did confirm our funds are safe and this doesn't affect food benefits purchases.

I work for a nonprofit that assists CalFresh recipients, and we've been getting calls about this all morning. The system outage is affecting cash withdrawals statewide. If you urgently need access to your cash benefits today, I suggest trying these options: 1. You can still use your EBT card to make purchases directly at stores that accept EBT cash benefits (separate from food benefits) 2. Some stores will allow cash back with purchase using EBT cash benefits 3. If you absolutely need cash today for rent, consider asking your landlord for a 1-day extension and explain the situation The EBT customer service line is overwhelmed right now, so it's very hard to get through. If anyone needs help contacting their county office about emergency assistance, I've had several clients successfully use Claimyr.com to get through to a live person without hours of waiting. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8

it just started working for me!!! i just tried the atm at the gas station near my house and was able to get cash out. maybe try again?

For anyone who sees this thread later: This was a statewide EBT cash benefit outage that lasted from approximately 6am to 4pm on May 3, 2025. It only affected cash withdrawals from EBT cards, not food benefit purchases. If you experience this issue in the future, here are some steps to take: 1. Check if it's a widespread issue by calling EBT customer service at 877-328-9677 2. If you need immediate assistance, contact your county office directly 3. Remember you can often get cash back with purchases at grocery stores that accept EBT cash benefits 4. If you face hardship due to system outages, document everything for possible emergency assistance The system should be fully operational now, but these outages do happen occasionally.