Just a reminder that you can also check your balance before withdrawing money by calling the number on the back of your EBT card or checking online at www.ebt.ca.gov. This helps avoid trying to withdraw more than you have (which can sometimes result in fees) and helps you keep track of your benefits throughout the month. To summarize the best no-fee options for getting cash from your CalWORKs EBT card: 1. Bank of America ATMs 2. Cash back at grocery stores, dollar stores, and retailers 3. ATMs at county welfare offices 4. Some credit union ATMs (check first) Hope this helps you avoid those unnecessary fees going forward!

Another tip that's helped me a lot - if you have a smartphone, download the EBT Edge app. It shows you your balance and transaction history, but more importantly it has a map feature that shows you nearby ATMs that don't charge fees for EBT cards. Super convenient when you're out and about and need to find a fee-free option quickly. I've saved probably $40-50 in fees over the past few months just by using this app to locate Bank of America ATMs or stores that do cash back. The app is free and works way better than trying to remember all the different places or calling the number on your card every time.

FINAL UPDATE: Went to the office today and got everything resolved! They updated my documentation and said my payment should be processed within 3 business days. The worker also helped me apply for CalWORKs since my RCA is ending after next month. She said there might still be a gap between programs but at least I'm prepared for it now. Thanks again everyone for all your advice!

This is such a helpful thread! I'm also on RCA and approaching my 8-month limit soon, so reading about your experience gives me a heads up about what to expect. I had no idea that the transition to CalWORKs wasn't automatic - I definitely need to start that application process early. The documentation requirements for RCA seem so much more complicated than regular CalWORKs. Has anyone else here had success with applying for CalWORKs before their RCA ended? I'm worried about that gap in benefits that keeps getting mentioned.

Just to clarify something important - once approved, your benefits will be backdated to the date of application. So even if it takes the full 30 days, you'll receive benefits for that entire period. For example, if you applied on May 1 and get approved on May 30, you'll receive benefits for all of May in your first payment.

Hey! I just went through this exact same situation last month. My worker was assigned on a Tuesday and I got my benefits the following Monday - so about 6 days. BUT I think it really depends on how complete your paperwork is and honestly your worker's caseload. I'd recommend calling first thing in the morning (like 8 AM sharp) to check in with your worker about your status. Also, make sure to mention your rent situation - they can sometimes push urgent cases through faster. Don't stress too much though, most people I know got theirs within 7-10 days of worker assignment. You got this!

I just wanted to follow up and ask if your money showed up yet? I'm keeping my fingers crossed for you!

So glad to hear your money finally showed up! This gives me hope for others dealing with the same situation. It's really helpful that you shared the exact label it appeared under ("REPL BENEFITS") - I'll remember that for future reference. The 3 business day timeline after approval seems to be pretty consistent based on what others have shared here. Thanks for updating us with the resolution!

I work with a legal aid organization that helps with benefit issues. Here's what you need to know about EBT theft: 1. California passed a law (AB 1168) that requires counties to reissue stolen benefits, but the implementation has been spotty 2. You have 90 days from the theft to report it 3. You can request what's called a "hardship waiver" of the 10-day investigation period if you're facing eviction or utility shutoff 4. If denied replacement, you have the right to appeal through a state hearing One thing not everyone knows: if your regular worker isn't helping, ask to speak with the county's EBT Coordinator specifically. They handle theft cases and can often expedite the process. Don't let them dismiss your claim - this is happening to many CalWORKs recipients and is a recognized problem the state is trying to address.

I'm so sorry this is happening to you - EBT theft is becoming a huge problem and it's devastating for families. A few things that might help while you're waiting for your replacement benefits: 1. Contact your local food bank immediately - they don't require paperwork and can help bridge the gap 2. Call 211 and ask about emergency rental assistance programs in your county - many have funds specifically for people waiting on benefit replacements 3. If you have kids under 5, WIC offices sometimes have emergency formula/baby food even if you're not enrolled For preventing future theft, I've started taking a photo of every ATM card reader before I use it - if something looks different or loose, I don't use that machine. Also, some people I know withdraw their entire benefit amount the second it hits (like 12:01 AM) and then immediately pay bills or buy money orders. The system absolutely should protect us better. You're not doing anything wrong - these criminals are getting more sophisticated and targeting people who can least afford the loss. Keep pushing your worker for that expedited review and don't let them make you feel like this is your fault.