How to activate new CalFresh EBT card? Mine's not working at grocery store

Yes, you definitely need to activate your new EBT card before using it! Call the number on the back of your card (it should be 1-877-328-9677 for California). You'll need to create a PIN during this call - make sure to pick something you'll remember but others can't easily guess. The activation should be immediate, so you can try using it again right after the call.

Same thing happened to me last month!! So frustrating right? You gotta call and set up a PIN first. The number is on the sticker on the card.

I think u need to call them and make a pin. but is this a replacement card or your first ever card? if replacement they might have kept your old pin active? not sure tho i always forget my pin lol

To activate your new CalFresh EBT card: 1. Call the EBT Customer Service number on the back of your card (1-877-328-9677) 2. You'll need your 16-digit EBT card number 3. You'll be asked to create a 4-digit PIN 4. You'll likely need to verify your identity with your date of birth or SSN Once activated, you can use it immediately. If you have trouble with the automated system, you might need to speak with a representative. Make sure your benefits have actually been loaded to the card too - sometimes there's a short delay between approval and when benefits are available.

when i got my card I had to call AND go online to make an account. the whole system is SO COMPLICATED for something that should be simple!!!! took me 3 days to get mine working last year. good luck!!!!

I had the same issue trying to reach someone about my card activation. Kept getting stuck in the automated system for HOURS. Finally used a service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to a real person in about 10 minutes. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. Saved me a ton of frustration when my card wasn't activating properly and I needed to speak to someone directly.

Sounds like everyone already gave you the info you need, but just wanted to add that you should keep the paper that came with your card. Sometimes you need to reference info on there if you have to call about problems. Also don't forget the county uses SAR7 for reporting - you'll need to submit that form every 6 months to keep your benefits, and do full recertification at 12 months. They don't always remind you!

UPDATE: I called the number and got my card activated! It was pretty easy once I found the right number to call. Had to enter my card number, zip code, and date of birth. Then created a PIN and it was activated immediately. Went back to the store and successfully bought groceries! So relieved. Thanks everyone for your help!

That's wonderful news! So glad you got it sorted out and were able to get groceries for your family. For future reference, you can also check your balance by calling that same number or going to ebt.ca.gov - really helpful to know how much you have left before shopping. Welcome to the CalFresh program and don't hesitate to ask if you have any other questions!

Reading through this entire thread as a new community member has been so educational! @Dmitry Petrov, I'm thrilled you got your card activated and could feed your family today - what a relief that must have been after such a long wait for approval. I just wanted to add one more tip for anyone else who might find this thread: if you're ever at a store and your EBT card isn't working, don't be afraid to step aside and call that customer service number (1-877-328-9677) right from the store. I've had to do this a couple times when there were technical issues, and the representatives can often troubleshoot the problem immediately or at least tell you if there's a system-wide outage. Most stores are understanding about EBT technical difficulties. This community is absolutely amazing - seeing everyone share their experiences and practical tips shows what a supportive space this is for people navigating CalFresh. As someone still learning the ropes myself, threads like this are incredibly valuable. Welcome to the program, Dmitry, and don't hesitate to ask if you run into any other questions! 💙

What an incredible thread to read as someone brand new to this community! @Dmitry Petrov, I'm so relieved you got your card activated and were able to get groceries for your family today. As a newcomer who just applied for CalFresh myself, this whole conversation has been like a step-by-step guide for what to expect when my card arrives. I had no idea about the activation requirement - honestly, the paperwork makes it sound like you can just start using the card immediately. Reading everyone's similar experiences makes me feel so much better about potentially making the same mistake! I'm definitely saving that customer service number (1-877-328-9677) in my phone right now and bookmarking this thread for reference. The tips about testing with a small purchase first, downloading the ebtEDGE app, checking balances online at ebt.ca.gov, and even using benefits at farmers markets - this is all information I never would have found anywhere else. This community is absolutely amazing for sharing real-world practical advice that actually helps families navigate these systems successfully. Thank you to everyone for creating such a welcoming, judgment-free space where people can ask questions and learn from each other. As someone still waiting for approval, seeing this level of support gives me so much confidence that I'll have help figuring things out when my time comes! 🙏