Update us after you get through to them! I'm curious if they'll fix it right away or give you the runaround. In my experience they usually fix it when you have proof, but sometimes they make you jump through so many hoops first.

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this - it's absolutely infuriating when the system fails like this! I went through something similar a few months ago and here's what worked for me: when you call, ask to speak to a supervisor right away if the first person can't help. Also, screenshot EVERYTHING from your BenefitsCal account - the confirmation page, your submission history, any emails you received. Sometimes the county workers can see more details in their system if you give them the exact date and time you submitted. And don't let them tell you that you have to reapply - this is 100% their error and they should restore your benefits immediately. You might also want to file a complaint with the state while you're dealing with this so there's a paper trail. Hang in there!

The WHOLE SYSTEM is broken!!! My neighbor had hers stolen THREE times and the third time they basically accused her of lying and denied the claim. She had to get legal aid involved to get her money back. DOCUMENT EVERYTHING and don't let them push you around!!

This is such a widespread problem and I'm so sorry you're dealing with this again! I work with families navigating benefits and here are some additional steps that might help: 1. When you call to report, specifically ask to speak with a "Benefits Security Specialist" - they handle theft cases and know the process better than regular intake workers 2. Request they put a "fraud alert" on your account immediately while processing your claim 3. Ask for written confirmation of your claim number and expected processing timeline 4. If you have a smartphone, take photos of any ATM before using it - this can serve as evidence that you weren't at suspicious locations Also, California has a new pilot program starting this year that provides immediate emergency food assistance (up to $200) while theft claims are being processed. Ask specifically about "Emergency Food Assistance for Theft Victims" when you call. The suspicious attitude from workers is unfortunately common, but remember - you have legal rights here. Don't let them make you feel like you're doing anything wrong. Keep pushing and document every interaction!

To clarify for anyone reading this thread later - the official CalFresh policy is that benefits are available at midnight on your assigned day (based on the last digit of your case number), but due to system processing, there can sometimes be delays. If you're in an emergency situation, you can request expedited services (3-day processing) when you apply, or if you're already a recipient, contact your county office about emergency food resources.

Glad you got your benefits figured out! Just wanted to add for anyone else reading this - if you're ever unsure about your specific benefit date, you can also check the EBT Edge mobile app or call the customer service number on the back of your EBT card. They'll tell you exactly when your benefits are scheduled to be loaded. Also, some grocery stores will let you check your EBT balance at the customer service counter without having to make a purchase, which can save you the embarrassment of a declined transaction at checkout.

I work at a Sam's Club in Sacramento and can confirm what others have said - we definitely cannot add EBT cards to the app or use them for online orders. The system just isn't set up for it due to federal regulations. However, I wanted to share a few tips that might help make your in-store experience smoother: 1) Our customer service desk can pre-approve your EBT card before you shop, which sometimes helps avoid issues at checkout, 2) If you're buying in bulk, consider splitting large quantities between EBT-eligible and non-eligible items BEFORE you get to checkout (like if you're buying 24 bottles of water, make sure they're not mixed with non-food items), and 3) We typically have at least one cashier per shift who's well-trained on EBT transactions - don't hesitate to ask for them specifically if the first cashier seems unsure. Hope this helps make your Sam's Club trips easier!

Just to add another perspective - I've been using EBT at Sam's Club for about 2 years now and while you definitely can't add it to the app, I've found a workaround that helps with planning. I use the Sam's Club app to browse and add items to my "favorites" list, then I screenshot the list and use a notes app to mark which items are EBT-eligible before I go shopping. This way I can still take advantage of the app's features like seeing current prices and special offers, but I'm prepared for checkout with my physical card. It's not as convenient as having everything integrated, but it's better than going in blind! Also, pro tip: the Sam's Club website has a search filter for "SNAP eligible" items which can help with meal planning even though you can't actually order online with EBT.

Hey everyone! I'm new to CalFresh and this conversation has been super helpful. I was also expecting some kind of increase this month because I saw something on social media about benefit increases, but now I understand it was probably about a different program. It's good to know that if my expenses go up (like rent or utilities), I can report that anytime and potentially get more benefits rather than waiting for the annual October adjustment. Thanks for all the clear explanations - this community is really supportive!

Thanks everyone for all this helpful info! I'm relatively new to CalFresh too and was also confused about the timing. It's really reassuring to know that October is the standard time for increases and that there wasn't actually supposed to be one this month. I was starting to worry I had missed something or that there was an issue with my account. Also really good to know about being able to report expense changes anytime - my childcare costs just went up and I had no idea I could report that outside of my regular reporting period. This community is such a great resource for getting accurate information instead of trying to figure things out from confusing government websites!