EBT theft: $940 stolen from my CalFresh benefits in another state - need help recovering funds

I'm so sorry this happened to you! Unfortunately EBT skimming has become really common. You need to file a theft report with your county office ASAP. Go to your local office in person if possible with your card and ID. They should give you form DFA 868 (EBT benefit theft form) to fill out. They have 10 days to investigate and if approved, benefits are usually restored within 7-14 days. Make sure to change your PIN immediately through the EBT app or by calling the customer service number. Also, get a replacement card - your current one is likely compromised.

This happnd to me last yr!! The EXACT thing, mine was stolen and used in Florida. I had to file a police report first and then take that to my county office. It took almost 3 weeks to get my benefits back and they only gave me back about 75% of what was stolen they said the other transactions were "suspicious but not clearly fraud" whatever that means. So frustrating!!

EBT theft is getting worse in California. Over 60% of the cases are from skimming devices attached to ATMs or card readers. When you file your claim with the county, you need to include these specific details to maximize your chance of full reimbursement: 1. The exact date and time you last used your card legitimately 2. Proof that you were in California when the fraud occurred (any receipt with timestamp) 3. Screenshots of the fraudulent transactions from your EBT account 4. A written statement that you've never been to Texas Also important: by federal regulations, they MUST process your claim within 10 business days, but only if it's properly filed. If they take longer, contact the CDSS state office directly at 916-654-1763.

OMG this is so scary!!! I just checked mine and am relieved nothing was stolen but now I'm paranoid. How do they even get your PIN?? I thought these cards were supposed to be secure!

If you're having trouble getting through to your county office by phone, I highly recommend trying Claimyr. I used them last month when my benefits were incorrectly calculated and couldn't get through on the phone for days. Claimyr got me connected to a real person at my county office in under 10 minutes. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a video demo showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. Seriously made the whole process so much easier during a stressful time.

Make sure to document EVERYTHING when you file your claim. Take photos of all paperwork, get the names of everyone you speak with, and follow up regularly. The county offices are seriously understaffed right now and claims can fall through the cracks. If your family needs emergency food assistance while waiting for your benefits to be restored, call 211 for referrals to local food pantries. Many schools also have emergency food programs for families with children.

this is why i ALWAYS take ALL my money off the card as soon as its loaded each month!!! cant steal whats not there lol

I work at a community legal aid office, and we've seen dozens of these cases recently. While waiting for your claim to be processed, you might qualify for emergency CalFresh benefits. If you have less than $150 in monthly income and less than $100 in resources, you can receive expedited benefits within 3 days. Ask specifically about this when you go to the county office. Also, if they deny your claim or only reimburse part of the stolen amount, you have the right to appeal the decision within 90 days. Don't just accept a partial reimbursement!

Just a thought but did u use ur card at a sketchy gas station or ATM recently? my cousin got her benefits stolen and they found out that gas station had a skimming device.