CalWORKs EBT card not working for cash withdrawals - anyone else having this issue?

same thing hapned to me last week!! tried 2 atms and both declined. had to go to walmart and buy something small then get cashback. such a pain

There are a few possible things that could be happening here: 1. Your PIN might need to be reset - sometimes the system automatically locks cards after too many attempts 2. There's a daily withdrawal limit on EBT cards (usually around $500) 3. The particular ATMs might have lower limits or charge fees that would exceed your balance 4. There could be a temporary system issue First, call the number on the back of your EBT card (1-877-328-9677) to check your balance and see if there are any alerts on your account. You can also reset your PIN through this number. If everything looks normal, try getting cash back at a grocery store like the previous person suggested. Most stores let you get up to $200 cash back with a purchase.

THIS HAPPENS EVERY SINGLE MONTH!!!! The EBT system is BROKEN and nobody at the county office ever takes responsibility. I've had my funds literally disappear before and they act like it's MY fault. One time they told me I'd have to wait 7-10 BUSINESS DAYS for an investigation when I couldn't buy FOOD for my CHILDREN!!! The whole CalWORKs system is designed to humiliate us and make everything as difficult as possible!!

I work with several CalWORKs families who've experienced this issue recently. There are actually scheduled maintenance periods for the EBT system that can temporarily affect cash withdrawals. First, check if you received any text alerts about system maintenance (if you're signed up for EBT text notifications). Second, try the cashback option others mentioned - most stores that accept EBT allow cashback with a purchase. Third, you can get a money order at many grocery stores using your EBT card directly, which might solve your landlord payment issue without needing cash. If none of these work, you'll need to contact your county office. The EBT customer service line can tell you if your benefits are active but they can't fix account-specific issues.

I had this problem last month and spent THREE HOURS on hold trying to reach someone at the county office. Finally I found this service called Claimyr (claimyr.com) that got me through to a real person in less than 10 minutes. They have this system that waits on hold for you then calls you when a real person answers. I was skeptical but it worked! They have a video showing how it works at https://youtu.be/jzISHxCPLwE. The worker told me there was a fraud alert on my account because I tried multiple ATMs in a short time (which triggered their system). They removed it and my card worked again right away.

Last time my card wouldnt work they said I needed to update my address at the county office. Have you moved recently or had any changes to your info? I had to fill out that stupid SAR7 form again even tho nothing changed except my apt number. The system is sooooo annoying about verification for everything!

UPDATE: I managed to get a money order at the grocery store directly with my EBT card! Thanks for that suggestion - totally didn't know that was possible. While I was there, I also bought something small and got $100 cash back just to test my card, and that worked too. I called the EBT customer service line and they confirmed there's no issue with my account, but they did say my card had been temporarily locked because of "unusual activity" (trying multiple ATMs I guess). So problem solved for now but super annoying. At least I can pay my rent on time.

This is such valuable info to have! I've been on CalWORKs for about 6 months now and had no idea about the money order option or that trying multiple ATMs could trigger a fraud alert. Really appreciate everyone sharing their experiences and solutions. Bookmarking this thread in case I run into similar issues. The system definitely has its quirks but at least we can help each other navigate them!

Just wanted to add another tip that helped me - if you're ever in a pinch and need cash quickly, some credit unions that partner with the EBT system allow you to withdraw from their teller window during business hours, even if their ATMs are down. I discovered this when Bank of America's ATM network was having issues a few months back. The teller was able to process my withdrawal manually using my EBT card and PIN. Not all banks do this, but it's worth calling around if you're stuck. Also, some 7-Elevens and other convenience stores offer cash back with small purchases if grocery stores aren't nearby. The daily limits are usually lower but it's another option when you're desperate!

This whole thread is incredibly helpful! I'm new to CalWORKs (just started receiving benefits two months ago) and my caseworker never mentioned most of these issues or solutions. The fraud alert triggering from trying multiple ATMs is something I definitely would have done without thinking about it. I'm saving all these tips - the money order option, cashback at stores, calling the EBT line first before trying multiple ATMs, and even the credit union manual withdrawal option. It's frustrating that we have to learn all these workarounds through trial and error or from each other instead of being properly informed upfront. Really grateful for this community sharing real practical advice that actually helps navigate the system!

As someone who's been navigating CalWORKs for about a year now, I can't stress enough how important it is to save the EBT customer service number (1-877-328-9677) in your phone and call them FIRST when you have any card issues. I learned this the hard way after getting my card locked multiple times from trying different ATMs. One thing I didn't see mentioned - if you're ever completely stuck and need emergency cash, some county offices have emergency voucher programs where they can issue you a paper voucher for immediate use at certain stores. It's not widely advertised but it exists for situations where your EBT card is completely non-functional and you need food/essentials right away. You have to go in person and it's a bit of paperwork, but it can be a lifesaver in crisis situations. Also, for anyone new to the system - sign up for text alerts through the EBT website! They'll notify you about system maintenance, balance updates, and sometimes even when your card gets temporarily locked. Wish I had known about that feature from day one.