Using my CalFresh EBT card while traveling - can I access benefits at a bank?

No u cant get cash from calfresh EBT at bank. Its not like cash aid. You can only use it at stores that accept EBT for food. Most grocery stores and some convenience stores take it. Even walmart and target.

Your CalFresh benefits can only be used to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers that accept EBT cards - you cannot withdraw cash from them at banks or ATMs. The good news is that EBT cards work nationwide, so you can use your California EBT card in any state at stores that accept SNAP/EBT. Some options for finding stores that accept EBT while traveling: - Large chains like Walmart, Target, Kroger, Safeway, etc. all accept EBT - Use the USDA Retailer Locator tool: https://www.fns.usda.gov/snap/retailer-locator - Look for the EBT/SNAP logo at store entrances Your benefits will work exactly the same as they do at home - you'll just swipe your card and enter your PIN at checkout.

This happened to me last year when my mom got sick and i had to go to Oregon!! I freaked out too but my EBT worked fine at the Safeway there. Just use it like normal and buy ur food with it. The only thing is you cant buy hot prepared food with it unless your county has the Restaurant Meals Program and even then only in specific places in CA.

Just to clarify something important - there are actually two completely different types of benefits that might be on your EBT card: 1. CalFresh (SNAP/food stamps): CANNOT be withdrawn as cash, can ONLY be used for purchasing eligible food items at authorized retailers. 2. CalWORKs (cash aid): CAN be withdrawn as cash from ATMs or used for purchases. If you only receive CalFresh, then you must use the card at stores for food purchases. If you also receive CalWORKs, you can withdraw that portion as cash, but not the CalFresh portion. Like others mentioned, your CalFresh benefits will work nationally at any store that accepts EBT/SNAP.

When I was trying to reach my county worker about using my EBT while traveling, I kept getting disconnected or stuck on hold FOREVER. Finally found this service called Claimyr that got me through to a real person in under 5 minutes! They basically call the CalFresh office for you, wait on hold, then connect you when a worker picks up. Saved me hours of frustration. Check out their website at claimyr.com or watch how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8

I literally just went through this EXACT SAME SITUATION last month!!! The system is SO FRUSTRATING!!! I needed access to my benefits while visiting my sister in Arizona and spent HOURS trying to figure it out. You CANNOT get cash from your CalFresh benefits - PERIOD!!! The county workers act like everyone should automatically know this!!! 🤬 I ended up having to find a Walmart and buy groceries there. At least the card worked out of state but it was such a hassle and nobody tells you this stuff when you sign up!!!

One thing to know when traveling - you can check your EBT balance and transaction history by calling the number on the back of your card. That way you know exactly how much you have available to spend. I also recommend downloading the ConnectEBT app or BenefitsCal app which lets you check your balance without calling.

u should also kno that some farmers markets give u double money for ur EBT. like u spend $10 EBT and they give u $20 worth of tokens to spend there. might be worth checking if where ur at has that program too

Since you mentioned being away for a week, here's another helpful tip: make sure you still have access to your mail or BenefitsCal messages while traveling. The county sometimes sends time-sensitive notices that require action within a specific timeframe. If you're expecting any verification requests or have an upcoming SAR7 or recertification due, make arrangements to handle those even while you're away.

Just wanted to add that some gas stations and convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Circle K, and Wawa also accept EBT if you need to grab something quick and can't get to a full grocery store. They usually have a limited selection of eligible food items but it's good to know as a backup option while traveling. Also, if you're staying somewhere with a kitchen, buying basic staples like bread, peanut butter, milk, etc. at these smaller stores can help you get by until you can make it to a larger grocery store for a full shopping trip.

Just wanted to share another option that might help - if you have Amazon Prime, you can also use your EBT card for Amazon Fresh or Whole Foods delivery in many areas. This could be really convenient since you're dealing with a family emergency and might not have time to go shopping in person. You'd need to add your EBT card to your Amazon account first, but it's pretty straightforward. They also offer free delivery on EBT orders over $35. Might be worth checking if they deliver to where you're staying!