Which website to check CalFresh application status? BenefitsCal not showing updates

BenefitsCal is actually the correct website to check your status, but it doesn't always update in real-time. Have you tried calling your county office directly? Sometimes the online status remains as 'Pending' even when they're actively processing your application or waiting for verification documents. At the 3-week mark, you should definitely follow up by phone.

same thing happened to me. benefits cal always just says pending for like forever lol. turns out they needed some pay stubs but never told me. had to call like 5 times to find out

The online status on BenefitsCal isn't always reliable for real-time updates. Here's what you should check: 1. Look for any mail from your county office - they often send notices requesting verification documents 2. Check your email if you provided one on your application 3. Call your county CalFresh office directly (not the general EBT customer service line) 4. If the online status has been "Pending" for more than 30 days, you can request an expedited determination Remember that CalFresh applications should legally be processed within 30 days, or 3 days if you qualify for expedited service (very low income/resources).

I had the same problem last year and found out the county office had my old address so I never got any of their notices asking for additional documents! Make sure they have your current contact info. Also, the BenefitsCal website has been glitchy since they updated it in January 2025... sometimes I had to log out and back in multiple times to see accurate status info.

I work with CalFresh applicants and honestly, calling is your best bet at this point. Three weeks is getting close to the 30-day processing requirement. If you're having trouble getting through on the phone lines (which is super common), I'd recommend trying Claimyr.com - it's a service that waits on hold with the county office for you and calls you back when a real person is on the line. They have a video showing how it works here: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8 But yes, BenefitsCal is the correct website. The status updates can be delayed by several days depending on your county's workload.

anybody know if they still sending those extra emergency allotments? my neighbor said she still getting extra but i thought those ended???

UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at the county office! Turns out they were missing a copy of my ID even though I submitted it with my original application. They said they'll expedite my application since it's been almost 30 days. Thanks everyone for your help!

Congrats on getting through! That's such a relief. I've been in a similar situation where documents somehow went "missing" in their system - it's so frustrating but at least now you're back on track. Since they're expediting it, you should hear back within a few days. Just a heads up though - even after approval, it can take 7-10 days to get your actual EBT card in the mail, so don't panic if there's still a bit of a wait. Fingers crossed everything moves quickly for you now!

That's such great news that you finally got through and they're expediting your case! It's unfortunately super common for documents to get "lost" in their system - happened to me too when I first applied. Since you mentioned your rent went up $250, you might want to ask your caseworker if that change affects your benefit amount at all. Sometimes increased housing costs can actually increase your CalFresh allotment. Also, once you get approved and receive your EBT card, don't forget you can use it at farmers markets too if there are any near you - they often have matching programs that double your buying power for fresh produce!