Warning: CalWORKs EBT benefit theft happening on the 1st - protect your Cash Aid!

This is ABSOLUTELY correct advice! My sister had her entire $840 Cash Aid stolen last month. The thieves got it all within 20 minutes of it loading at midnight. She called right away but it still took 3 weeks to get replacement benefits. The county is investigating these thefts but they're still happening. I always withdraw my full Cash Aid amount first thing on the 1st, or transfer it to my bank account through the EBT app. Don't wait - there are criminals who specifically target benefits on the 1st-3rd of each month because they know that's when funds load. Also, some tips from my WTW case manager: - Change your PIN regularly - Cover the keypad when entering your PIN at ATMs - Check for card skimmers before inserting your card - Don't share your card or PIN with ANYONE, even family - Check your balance frequently for unauthorized transactions

this happened to me!!! all my march cash aid gone and my kid had no diapers for a week. the county made me fill out hella paperwork and i still dont have the money back yet. they said somethin about "benefi theft investigation" takin 30-90 days. how tf am i supposed to pay rent now???

This is unfortunately becoming very common with Cash Aid benefits. I work as a benefits counselor and we're seeing a huge increase in EBT theft cases. Here's what you need to know: 1. California now has a benefit theft replacement policy, but you must report the theft within 10 days of discovering it 2. You'll need to complete a "EBT Benefit Theft Report" form (usually CW 50 or similar) 3. For faster processing, also file a police report and provide the report number 4. You can request expedited replacement if you're facing eviction or utility shutoff 5. Always transfer/withdraw your benefits immediately when they're deposited Also important: if your Cash Aid is stolen, you can request emergency assistance through the Housing Support Program (HSP) if you're at risk of homelessness while waiting for replacement benefits.

To clarify for everyone: California DOES replace stolen Cash Aid (not just CalFresh) as of October 2023. The policy changed because theft became so widespread. You have to report it within 10 days and complete the necessary paperwork, but replacement is available. The process can be slow though, so the best approach is still prevention.

had mine stolen in january!! took 45 days to get my money back and I had to borrow from family to pay rent. the county workers told me they're getting hundreds of theft reports every month now. 100% withdraw your cash as soon as it hits your account!!!!!

I've been helping several clients with this exact issue recently. Here's what's probably happening: criminals are using "skimming" devices attached to ATMs or card readers that capture your card information and PIN. They create duplicate cards and drain accounts. In addition to withdrawing your benefits immediately, I strongly recommend calling the EBT customer service line (877-328-9677) to sign up for electronic alerts. You'll get a text message or email whenever there's activity on your account. Also, the 48-month time limit on CalWORKs doesn't pause while you're waiting for stolen benefits to be replaced, so it's critical to protect your benefits. Some clients have been waiting months for replacement funds, which means they're using up their limited eligibility time without actually receiving assistance.

The 48-month time limit still applies, though there are exemptions that can pause the clock in certain situations. Having children under age 6 doesn't automatically stop the clock, but depending on your circumstances, you might qualify for exemptions related to childcare availability or other factors. It's best to speak with your Welfare to Work specialist about your specific situation.

Had the WORST experience trying to report my stolen benefits last month. Spent 4 HOURS on hold with the county office and kept getting disconnected! Finally had to drive all the way to the welfare office and wait another 3 hours to file a report in person. The worker even had the nerve to imply I might have spent the money myself! By the time I finally got someone to take my report seriously, I was already late on rent and got hit with a $75 late fee. The system is DESIGNED to make us fail!!

I just checked the CalWORKs website and found this bulletin about the benefit theft issue: https://benefitscal.com/security-tips It says they're seeing a huge spike in theft right after benefits are issued. I'm going to set an alarm to withdraw mine at 12:01am when it hits my account. Thanks everyone for the advice! I really can't afford to lose this money with rent being due.