Urgent! CalFresh EBT card locked in app - can't unlock at grocery store

been there done that!! the app is so glitchy sometimes. try using the website instead of the app if u have data on ur phone - connectebt.com - sometimes works when app doesnt

You need to call the EBT Customer Service number on the back of your card: 1-877-328-9677. They can unlock your card immediately over the phone. You'll need to verify your identity with your card number, DOB, and last 4 of your SSN. The automated system should have an option for unlocking cards without needing to speak to a representative, which is faster. Hope this helps!

For future reference, there are three ways to unlock your CalFresh EBT card if you've locked it: 1. Through the EBT Mobile app (which wasn't working for you) 2. Online at connectebt.com 3. Calling customer service at 1-877-328-9677 The phone system is usually the most reliable since the app and website can have maintenance issues. Also remember that locking your card is a safety feature, so even though it was frustrating this time, it's good protection if your card is actually lost or stolen.

This happened 2 me last yr!! So annoying!!

I always have issues with the mobile app too. It's been especially bad since they updated it in January. I usually just save the customer service number as a contact in my phone so I can call immediately instead of searching for it when I'm in a panic. One time my card got locked somehow without me even doing it! Had to call and wait almost 25 minutes with a cart full of groceries and a screaming toddler. Now I'm paranoid and always check my card status before I shop.

If you're still having trouble reaching someone to help with your EBT card, you might want to try Claimyr. I was in a similar situation last month where I needed to speak with someone about my locked card and couldn't get through the regular channels. Claimyr helped me skip the phone queue and got me connected to a representative in just a few minutes. It really saved me when I was in a tight spot. You can check out how it works at claimyr.com or see a demo at https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8

btw if ur ever in this situation again and cant unlock it right away, ask the cashier if they can save ur transaction! most stores can put it on hold for a bit while u sort stuff out. i used to be a cashier and we did this all the time

Glad you got it resolved! Another tip: in the EBT Mobile app, there's a setting to enable fingerprint/face login that makes it more reliable. Go to Profile > Security Settings to set it up. That way even if you forget your password, you can still get in with your biometrics.

Wow, what a stressful situation! I'm so glad you were able to get it resolved quickly. This exact same thing happened to my sister a few months ago - she accidentally locked her card thinking she lost it, then panicked when she couldn't unlock it at the store. It's such a relief to know that the phone system actually works when the app fails. I'm definitely saving that customer service number in my phone now just in case. Thanks for sharing your experience - it's really helpful to know what to do if this happens to any of us!

I'm so sorry you had to go through that stress! As someone who's been on CalFresh for a while, I've learned to always keep that customer service number handy - 1-877-328-9677. The app can be really unreliable, especially during peak times. One thing that's helped me is to always test my card before doing big shopping trips, just a quick balance check to make sure everything's working. Also, don't feel embarrassed about this - it happens to more people than you'd think! Store employees see EBT issues all the time and most are very understanding. Glad you got it sorted out and your kids got their groceries!