Just got my CalFresh EBT card - is there an app like WIC to check balance and find stores?

Yes! There are several apps you can use with your CalFresh EBT card. The official one from California is called 'CalFresh Mobile' which lets you check your balance, view transaction history, and find nearby stores that accept EBT. There's also a more widely used one called 'Fresh EBT' (now called Providers) that many people prefer since it has more features like budget tools and digital coupons for EBT users. As for where you can use it - your CalFresh benefits can be used at most grocery stores, many farmers markets, some corner stores, and even some online retailers like Amazon and Walmart for grocery delivery. Unlike WIC, which restricts specific food items, CalFresh lets you buy most foods except for hot prepared foods, alcohol, tobacco, vitamins, and non-food items.

theres a app called providrs (used to be fresh ebt) thats good. u can check ur balance and it shows u places nearby that take ebt. also lets u know when ur benefits get deposited each month.

I've been on CalFresh for 2 years and I HIGHLY recommend the Providers app (used to be called Fresh EBT). You can link your EBT card to check your balance anytime without calling that annoying automated line. It also shows transaction history so you can track your spending, and it maps out nearby stores that accept EBT. Some farmers markets even give you double value with their Market Match program when you use your EBT there! One thing to be aware of - CalFresh is different from WIC in terms of what you can buy. With CalFresh you can purchase pretty much any food items except hot prepared foods, alcohol, vitamins, or non-food items. No specific restrictions on brands or types of foods like with WIC. BTW if you ever DO need to call the CalFresh office (like for your recertification or to report income changes), check out Claimyr.com. It helps you get through to an actual human at the county office without waiting on hold forever. They have a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. Saved me HOURS of frustration!

I just wanted to warn u that some apps aren't official and might ask for personal info. I use the CalFresh Mobile app which is made by the state and feels safer to me. My cousin had his account hacked after using some 3rd party app (not saying it was Providers/Fresh EBT, just something to be careful about).

When I first got my EBT card last month I was so confused too! One thing nobody told me - some grocery stores let you get cash back with your EBT card, but ONLY if you have CalWORKs cash benefits, not if you just have CalFresh food benefits. I tried getting cash back at Safeway and my transaction got declined and I was so embarrassed! Had to learn the hard way lol

I've been using CalFresh for a few years now. Regarding the apps, Providers (formerly Fresh EBT) is definitely the most user-friendly. The official CalFresh Mobile app works too but isn't as feature-rich. One important thing to know: Your benefits are loaded on a specific day each month based on the last digit of your case number. Mine load on the 7th because my case ends in 4. You can see your scheduled deposit date in either app. Also, I found out recently that Walmart, Amazon, and Instacart now accept EBT for online grocery shopping and delivery in California, which has been super helpful when I can't get to the store. Just make sure you select EBT-eligible items (not all items can be purchased with EBT).

Since no one has mentioned it yet - if you need to check your balance but don't want to use an app, you can always call the number on the back of your EBT card (877-328-9677). I know you mentioned preferring not to call, but it's good to know the option exists if your phone is having issues or you're somewhere without good internet. Just another option to have in your back pocket!

Welcome to CalFresh! I've been using it for about 6 months now and wanted to add a few tips that helped me when I was starting out. Definitely get the Providers app like everyone mentioned - it's been a lifesaver. One thing I wish I'd known earlier: many grocery stores have special sections or sales for EBT users, but they don't always advertise it well. At my local Ralph's they have a discount produce section that's perfect for stretching your benefits further. Also, if you shop at stores like Whole Foods or Sprouts, they sometimes have "EBT eligible" tags on sale items which makes it easier to spot good deals. Oh, and don't be shy about asking store employees if you're unsure whether something is EBT eligible - most of them are pretty helpful about it. The cashiers usually know right away if an item won't go through. Good luck with everything!