EBT theft claim stuck because of unmarked box - facing utility shutoffs while waiting for CalFresh replacement

I went through this in February. The good news is that once all your paperwork is correct, they're supposed to process EBT theft claims within 10 business days. The bad news is that the 10-day clock restarts every time there's a correction needed. Make sure you follow up with your worker in 2-3 days to confirm they received your corrected form - don't assume they got it or are processing it. Also, while you're waiting, you might qualify for expedited CalFresh benefits due to your utility shutoff situation. Ask specifically about that when you call.

the same thing happened to me in march!!! they made me redo the form TWICE because of stupid boxes. took almost 3 weeks to get my money back. the whole system is rigged to make it hard for us to get help when someone steals from us

Im dealing with this exact situation right now! My CalFresh was stolen last month ($892) and Ive been going back and forth with them. Did your worker tell you WHICH box was missing? On my form they said I didn't check the box about "not authorizing the transaction" but it was super confusing because there were like 3 similar boxes. So frustrating when we're doing everything right and still have to wait while our families go hungry.

Have you tried using Claimyr to reach your CalFresh worker faster? I was in a similar situation with my theft claim dragging on and was getting desperate. Tried this service at claimyr.com that actually got me through to a real person at the county office in about 10 minutes instead of waiting for hours. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. Definitely worth it for urgent situations like yours with shutoff notices.

I work with CalFresh cases and can clarify some things about the theft replacement process: 1. Once all paperwork is correctly submitted, counties have 10 business days to process and issue replacement benefits 2. For the shutoff notices - contact your utility company immediately and let them know you're waiting on CalFresh theft replacement. Many have programs to delay shutoffs for people in your situation. 3. Double check that you completed Form CF 303 correctly - that's usually where boxes get missed 4. The 10-day clock only restarts from the date they receive your corrected form 5. If you don't get a response within 10 business days, you can file for a State Hearing Also, Sacramento County specifically has been experiencing processing delays with theft claims because of the high volume they're receiving in 2025. Make sure to mention your utility shutoff situation when you follow up - it can help prioritize your case.

i had my calfresh stolen in march and still waiting!!! its been 6 weeks and they keep saying its under review. this is so wrong they expect us to just starve while we wait??? my kids are eating at school but weekends are a struggle

Since you're in Sacramento County, I wanted to add that they've been especially backed up with theft claims this year. A few things that might help speed up your case: 1. Make sure you write "UTILITY SHUTOFF PENDING" in all communications 2. If you have a MyBenefits account, upload your shutoff notice along with a note referencing your theft claim 3. If you don't hear back in 3 days, go in person to the office with all your documentation 4. Ask specifically about emergency assistance funds that might be available while your theft claim is processing The policy says 10 business days, but I've seen Sacramento cases taking 15-20 business days even with perfect paperwork lately. Don't wait - be proactive about following up.

One thing nobody mentioned - if you reported the theft within 10 days of it happening (which you did), they HAVE to replace the benefits by law. Print out the EBT theft replacement regulations and bring them with you to the office. It's called the "timely reporting requirement" and they can't deny you if you met the deadline. I had to fight for my replacement for weeks until I showed them their own policy.

Did your worker tell you how long the review would take after you fixed the form? When this happened to me they never gave me a straight answer and I ended up having to borrow money from family to avoid utilities being shut off. The worst part was they eventually replaced my benefits but by then I was already in debt to everyone I know. It's so unfair that we get punished for something that wasn't our fault.

also check with local food banks!! they often have emergency assistance for people waiting on calfresh benefits. saved me when mine were stolen