Finally received my Golden State Advantage card and added it to EBT Edge app for security - anyone else?

Got mine last week! The gold color is prettier than the old blue one lol. I added mine to the app too but didnt know about the lock feature??

This is actually a really important security update everyone with CalFresh should know about. The Golden State Advantage cards (replacing the older CalFresh EBT cards) have enhanced security features, and the EBT Edge app gives you even more protection. In addition to the card lock feature you mentioned, make sure you: 1. Set up transaction alerts so you get notified any time your card is used 2. Create a strong PIN and change it periodically 3. Check your balance regularly for any unauthorized transactions 4. Never share your PIN or card information with anyone If you ever do suspect fraud, report it immediately to the EBT Customer Service line AND your county office. You generally have 90 days to dispute fraudulent transactions and potentially get benefits replaced.

NOBODY TOLD ME ABOUT THIS!!! I'm still using my old blue card and nobody sent me any letter or nothing about a replacement!!! Is this why my balance was lower than it should be last month????? I'm calling my worker RIGHT NOW.

I got my Golden State card about 3 weeks ago. The weird thing is I also still have my old EBT card and BOTH WORK! I tested it at the store. Anyone else having this happen? Seems like a security risk if both cards can access the same benefits.

If any of you are trying to reach your county CalFresh office about these new cards or any security concerns but can't get through, I highly recommend trying Claimyr. I was on hold for HOURS trying to report suspicious activity on my account last month, kept getting disconnected. Then I found this service that gets you a callback from a real person at the county office. Saved me so much stress! Check out their video to see how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8 or go to claimyr.com. Seriously worth it when you absolutely need to talk to someone about your benefits.

A couple important things to know about the new Golden State Advantage cards that most people don't realize: 1. Your old PIN doesn't automatically transfer - you need to set a new one 2. If you have automatic payments set up with your old card number (like Amazon Fresh), you'll need to update those 3. The new cards work with mobile payment apps like Apple Pay and Google Pay 4. There's a 48-hour period after activation where some merchants might still decline it The card lock feature you mentioned is definitely worth using. I work with CalFresh recipients every day and benefit theft has increased 300% in the last year. These new security features are long overdue.

anyone know if the golden state advantage cards still work with the calfresh restaurant program? my grandma uses her benefits at subway sometimes

I'm confused about something - is this ONLY for CalFresh or does it affect CalWORKs too? I get both and now I'm worried about my cash aid too.

UPDATE: I've been using the card lock feature for about a week now, and it's super easy! I just unlock it right before checking out at the store and lock it again right after. Gives me such peace of mind! Also found out you can see all your transaction history in the app which helps me budget better. Thanks everyone for the additional security tips!

Just received my Golden State Advantage card yesterday and this thread has been SO helpful! I had no idea about all these security features. Already downloaded the EBT Edge app and set up the card lock - took me a few tries to get the verification code to work but persistence paid off. Quick question though - does anyone know if there's a way to temporarily unlock the card for a specific amount of time? Like if I'm doing a big grocery shopping trip and don't want to keep unlocking/locking between different stores? Also really appreciate the tip about updating automatic payments - completely forgot I had my card linked to Walmart grocery pickup!