No, I haven't used an ATM in over a week! That's why I'm so confused how they got my card info. The transaction was at some random gas station across town I've never been to.

I'm so sorry this happened to you! This is unfortunately becoming more common. Since you haven't used an ATM recently, the thieves likely got your card info through "shimming" - they put a device inside card readers at stores, gas stations, or even some government offices that copies your card data when you swipe for purchases. The good news is you acted quickly by calling the EBT hotline right away. Make sure when you get your replacement card that you cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN, and try to use chip readers instead of swiping whenever possible. Also, consider setting up account alerts through the EBT app so you'll know immediately if there are any transactions you didn't make. Hang in there - most people do get their stolen benefits back, it just takes patience during the investigation process.

That's such great news that you got it sorted out! I'm dealing with something similar right now - my CalFresh has been pending for 5 days while my cash aid came through fine. Reading through all these responses really convinced me I need to stop waiting and just call tomorrow. It sounds like there's almost always some verification issue they need that they don't clearly communicate. Thanks for posting the update - it gives me hope that once I actually get through to someone they can fix it quickly!

This is exactly why I always recommend calling within 48-72 hours if benefits show as pending. The county offices are required to process benefits within certain timeframes, but they often have verification requirements that aren't clearly communicated. I've seen too many families go without food for weeks because they thought "pending" meant it would automatically resolve. If you're having trouble getting through on the phone (which unfortunately is super common), try calling right when they open - usually 8am. You can also try the automated system first to see if it gives you any information about outstanding requirements before waiting for a human. Some counties also have online portals where you can check if there are any pending verifications needed. The important thing is that you advocated for yourself and your family by calling! Too many people just wait and assume the system will work itself out.

That's great news that it worked out! Just wanted to add for anyone else reading this - if you ever have issues with Bank of America tellers not knowing about EBT Cash Aid withdrawals, you can ask to speak with a supervisor or show them that it's specifically mentioned in their EBT program guidelines. I've had a couple newer tellers who weren't familiar with the process, but once they checked with someone more experienced it was no problem. Also, keep your receipt from the teller withdrawal just like you would with an ATM transaction - it shows the withdrawal amount and remaining balance which is helpful for budgeting.

Welcome to CalWORKs and glad you found this thread helpful! Just wanted to add another tip - if you're ever in a situation where you need cash urgently but Bank of America branches are closed, you can also get cash back at many grocery stores when you buy something with your EBT card. Places like Safeway, Walmart, and some CVS locations let you get cash back from your Cash Aid account when you make a purchase. It's usually limited to like $50-100 depending on the store, but it's free and can be a lifesaver on weekends or after banking hours. The key is to make sure you're selecting "Cash" not "Food" when they ask which account to use at checkout.

I almost forgot - check if this might be related to the mid-year grant adjustment that California implemented in 2025. CalWORKs had a cost-of-living increase in some counties but also changed how they calculate certain deductions. Your worker should be able to explain exactly what happened in your case. Be sure to ask for a detailed breakdown of the calculation and request that they send you an updated Notice of Action if you haven't received one.

This is so frustrating and unfortunately way too common! The same thing happened to my neighbor last month - approved for one amount, then got something completely different with no clear explanation. A couple things that might help while you're waiting to get through to someone: 1. Screenshot everything in BenefitsCal showing the $158 amount so you have proof 2. Keep that text message about the $235 approval - that's your evidence 3. If you have a local CalWORKs office, sometimes going in person gets better results than calling (I know it's a pain but might be worth it) 4. Check if there's a "Messages" or "Notices" section in BenefitsCal that might have more details The fact that it's exactly $77 less makes me think there's definitely a specific reason - could be an overpayment recovery, income miscalculation, or some kind of penalty. Don't give up! You deserve to know exactly why there's a difference and they're required to explain it to you clearly. Hoping you can get through to someone soon!

One more important thing no one mentioned: If you've had ANY income changes (even small ones) in the past 6 months that you haven't reported yet, make sure those are ALL included on your SAR 7. If they find out later you didn't report income accurately, you could face an overpayment situation where you have to pay back benefits. Also, remember the Income Reporting Threshold (IRT) - if your income goes above that amount (listed on your last approval letter), you're supposed to report it within 10 days, not wait for the SAR 7.

I'm glad everything worked out for you! This is such a common stress for CalWORKs recipients. Just wanted to add for anyone else reading this - if you're ever cutting it close with your SAR 7 deadline, you can also submit it online through BenefitsCal which sometimes processes faster than paper submissions. And definitely keep screenshots/confirmation numbers if you submit online. Also, some counties have drop boxes that are accessible 24/7 if their offices are closed, which can be a lifesaver if you're literally at the last minute on the 30th or 31st. The key thing is getting it submitted before midnight on the last day of your submit month - that's what counts for the cure period, not when they actually process it.