I'm experiencing this exact same problem with my two kids' PEBT cards that arrived this week! It's such a relief to find this thread and realize it's not just me. I've been calling the activation number obsessively for the past two days and getting that same "call back later" message every single time. My kids are asking when we can go buy groceries and I keep having to postpone our shopping trip. I'm definitely going to try Emily's workaround with the regular EBT customer service line tomorrow - that seems to be working for a lot of people here. It's frustrating that this happens every distribution cycle, but at least now I know it's a system capacity issue and not something wrong with my specific cards. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and solutions - this community is so helpful during these stressful situations!

I'm going through this exact same issue right now! Got my son's PEBT card yesterday and have been trying to activate it since this morning. Keep getting that frustrating "call back later" message no matter what time I call. It's such a relief to find this thread and realize it's a widespread system problem, not something wrong with my card specifically. I was starting to worry the card was defective or something. Definitely going to try Emily's workaround with the regular EBT customer service line - seems like that's been the most successful solution for people here. It's honestly crazy that this happens every single distribution cycle. You'd think after all these years they'd figure out how to handle the call volume better! Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences and the helpful tips. Makes this whole stressful process feel a lot less isolating.

my sister moved from texas last year and got calfresh within 2 weeks! but she had all her paperwork ready and kept calling to check on status. just make sure u have ur ID, proof of income, and something showing ur new address in california. good luck with the move!!

Just wanted to add that if you're job hunting while transitioning to California, you can use a future job offer letter as income verification even if you haven't started working yet. I did this when I moved from Oregon last year - my new employer provided a letter stating my start date and salary, and the county accepted it for my CalFresh application. This can be really helpful if you're between jobs during the move. Also, if you have any medical conditions or disabilities, make sure to mention them during your interview as you might qualify for additional deductions that could increase your benefit amount.

Welcome to California! Just wanted to add that when you do your CalFresh interview (which can be done over the phone), the caseworker will likely ask specifically about any benefits you received in other states in the past 12 months. Having that Texas cancellation confirmation email ready will definitely help speed things along. Also, since you mentioned you just moved 2 weeks ago, you might want to apply in the county where you're currently living - each county has slightly different processing times. Los Angeles and San Francisco counties tend to be busier, so if you're in a smaller county, you might get processed faster. The online application is really straightforward, and you can always call if you get stuck on any questions!

Orange County actually has pretty reasonable processing times compared to LA! I went through the same process there about 6 months ago when I moved from Nevada. One thing that really helped me was organizing all my documents beforehand - besides the Texas cancellation email, make sure you have your California address verification ready (lease agreement, utility bill, or even a bank statement with your new address works). The OC eligibility workers are generally pretty knowledgeable about interstate transfers, so you shouldn't have too much trouble explaining your situation. Also, if you haven't already, try to get a California ID or driver's license soon since that makes everything easier for future benefit renewals. Good luck with your application!

I just wanted to share that I work at a nonprofit that helps families navigate benefit transfers, and everything everyone has shared here is really solid advice! A few additional tips from what I've seen work best: 1. Take photos/screenshots of your current benefit amounts and case details before you start the transfer - this helps if there are any discrepancies later 2. If possible, try to time your move so it's NOT during a month when your benefits normally reload (like if you usually get benefits on the 15th, try to avoid moving mid-month) 3. Consider opening a bank account in Riverside County before you move if you don't have one already - some people find it easier to manage everything when their banking is local to their new county The intercounty transfer process has definitely gotten better over the past few years, but having all your documentation ready and being proactive like you're doing is the best approach. Wishing you and your family a smooth transition to Perris!

I moved from Orange County to Riverside County about 8 months ago and wanted to share what worked for me since you're doing a similar move. First, definitely start the ICT process early like others mentioned - I called OC about 2 weeks before my move and it made everything much smoother. But here's something that really helped that I haven't seen mentioned yet: I created a simple folder with copies of ALL my documents (ID, proof of income, utility bills, rent receipts, etc.) and brought it with me to Riverside County just in case. The transfer itself took about 5 weeks, but my benefits never stopped. What was really helpful was that Riverside County actually called ME about 3 weeks after the transfer was initiated to confirm some details and let me know they had my case. I didn't expect that level of communication! One thing specific to your situation - since your husband is getting a new job, make sure to report that income change to Riverside County once he starts working. Even though it's the same job/same income, they'll want documentation from the new employer. The move from LA to Riverside County should go smoothly if you stay on top of it. Good luck with everything!

I just went through this process myself about 3 weeks ago after losing my job at a tech startup. The online application is definitely faster than calling - I couldn't even get through on the phone after multiple attempts. One thing I wish someone had told me is to apply for expedited services even if you're not 100% sure you qualify. The worst they can say is no, but if you do qualify, it can cut your wait time significantly. Also, make sure you upload everything at once if possible - I forgot to include my utility bill initially and it delayed my case by almost a week while they waited for me to submit it. The interview was pretty straightforward, just be honest about your situation. Most caseworkers understand that job loss happens and they're there to help, not judge. Hang in there - the benefits really do help bridge the gap while you're looking for new work!

I just wanted to chime in as someone who's helped family members through this process multiple times. One thing that might help while you're waiting for approval is to contact 211 (just dial 2-1-1 from any phone) - they can connect you with emergency food assistance, food banks, and other resources in your area that don't require applications or waiting periods. Many churches and community centers also have food pantries that are open to anyone who needs help, no questions asked. Since your rent is due in 2 weeks, you might also want to reach out to your local community action agency about emergency rental assistance programs - some counties in California still have COVID-related rental help available. Don't be afraid to use multiple resources while you're getting back on your feet. Everyone in this community understands how tough it is right now, and there's no shame in getting help when you need it. Wishing you the best with your application!