Which EBT balance check apps are actually safe and legit for CalFresh benefits?

The official ConnectEBT app is definitely the safest option for checking your CalFresh balance. It's made by Conduent, the same company that manages EBT card services in California. I've been using it for about 2 years with no issues. The app icon is blue with a white check mark. You can also check your balance by calling the number on the back of your EBT card if you're concerned about apps in general.

I use the Providers app, its good too

Youll need ur card number and PIN for any legitimate app, if it doesnt ask for that its probably not connecting to the real system. I alwys just call the # on back of card, cant trust none of these apps with all the scamming going on

The balance checking on the BenefitsCal website works fine for me still. Have you tried accessing it on a different browser? Sometimes clearing your cookies can help too. The website is definitely safer than random apps.

I had the EXACT same problem with the website last month!! It kept spinning forever when trying to check my balance. I tried for DAYS and couldn't get through to anyone at the county office - just endless hold times and then disconnections!!! Finally I used Claimyr.com to get through to a real person at the county office. They have this service where they wait on hold for you and call you back when a worker picks up. I was skeptical but watched their demo video (https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8) and decided to try it. The worker told me there was a known issue with the balance feature that should be fixed in a couple weeks, but in the meantime she recommended the ConnectEBT app or calling the EBT customer service line.

The safest options for checking your CalFresh EBT balance are: 1. ConnectEBT app (official app from Conduent) - requires card number and PIN 2. Calling the EBT customer service number on the back of your card 3. BenefitsCal website (though it sounds like you're experiencing the known technical issue) 4. Providers app (legitimate but has some performance issues) Avoid any apps that: - Don't require your full EBT card number and PIN - Ask for your Social Security Number - Have poor reviews or few downloads - Request unnecessary permissions like contacts or location The website issue is something several clients have reported recently. It should be resolved in the next system update.

I was super paranoid about this too after my neighbor had her benefits stolen last year! The ConnectEBT app is what my case worker specifically told me to use. It's not the prettiest app but it works consistently. Just make ABSOLUTELY SURE you download the right one - there are some fake apps with similar names. The real ConnectEBT app is made by Conduent.

UPDATE: I downloaded the ConnectEBT app and it's working great! Thanks everyone for the help. It was super easy to set up - just needed my card number and PIN. Now I can check my balance before heading to the store. I also saved the phone number as a backup just in case.