In this piece, we will address a crucial subject: the EBT card replacement process in California. It is important that you understand the specifics of this process in case your EBT card is lost, stolen, or damaged, and you might need to get a replacement card.
Follow the guide below if you need assistance making a request for a replacement California EBT card. It explains the stepwise process to get a replacement EBT card issued and delivered to you. In addition to that, we have covered some additional pressing topics, including EBT theft prevention and EBT fraud reporting.
Some Facts About The California Food Stamp EBT Card
Before we start on how to replace the California EBT card, let us go over some basic facts about the California EBT Card and its application.
- The California EBT Card, also known as the Golden State Advantage Card, is a debit-like card used to issue benefits, such as CalFresh or food stamps, as well as cash assistance (CalWORKS/TANF), to the program recipients.
- The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) administers the distribution of California EBT cards to eligible individuals and households.
- CalFresh participants usually receive their EBT card in the mail within the week following their application approval. For security reasons, the card PIN (Personal Identification Number) may come in a separate envelope.
- You will receive your CalFresh benefits and/or cash benefits each month on your EBT Card once you have been authorized for the respective programs.
- You can use your EBT card to redeem your CalFresh benefits to buy foods and groceries from participating retail stores, farmers’ markets, or online. Click here to find nearby locations that accept EBT cards in California here.
California Food Stamps EBT Replacement Guide
If your Food Stamp EBT card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you need to report the incident to EBT Customer Service and request a replacement card at the earliest.
Follow the instructions below to get a replacement EBT card:
Step 1: Contact the EBT Card Customer Service in California
You will be connected to an Automated Response Unit, and you can make your report without the need for you to speak with a Customer Service Representative. Continue past the first two prompts without entering your EBT card number. The third prompt will prompt you to report your stolen or lost card. Once you have successfully reported the incident, your EBT card will be deactivated. It implies you will not be able to access your EBT benefits until the replacement card arrives.
You should also request a replacement if your EBT card is damaged and cannot be detected by POS machines or ATMs.
California EBT Customer Service Numbers:1-877 328 9677 | TTY: 1-800 735 2929
California EBT Client Website: www.ebt.ca.gov
You can call the above toll-free numbers 24 hours a day and seven days a week. The customer service is available in many different languages, including English, Spanish, Eastern Armenian, Cambodian, Chinese, Farsi, Hmong, Lao, Russian, and Vietnamese.
You can also visit the above website to request a replacement EBT card.
Step 2: Confirm your identity
When you contact the EBT card customer service, you will need to verify your identity. To do so, you must provide some personal information (listed below). You may also need to answer a few security questions for further verification. It is crucial to undergo this verification process to ensure you are the original cardholder.
To protect your EBT card account, the California EBT card customer service may request the following personal information from you:
- Your Social Security Number (SSN)
- Date of birth
- Phone number
- Residential or postal address
Please remember that your information matches those listed on your California EBT card account.
Step 3: EBT card deactivation
Your EBT card will be deactivated once a California EBT Customer Service representative has successfully validated your identity. Subsequently, you will be unable to redeem your CalFresh benefits until you get the replacement card. The EBT Customer Service representative will initiate the procedure for a new EBT card after your existing card is deactivated. Next, you will need to confirm the mailing address where you want your replacement EBT card delivered.
Step 4: Receive your replacement EBT card
It may take about four to nine business days for your replacement EBT card to arrive once your replacement EBT card request is completed. Your new EBT card will be mailed to you through the United States Postal Service (USPS). You will receive an already active EBT card, i.e., it will be ready to use. Moreover, there will not be a need to set up a new PIN for the card. You will be able to use your existing PIN for the new card. Should you wish to reset your replacement EBT card PIN, you can contact the California EBT Card Customer Service again.
Contact California EBT Card Customer Service if your replacement card does not arrive within four to nine business days. They will help you track the mail carrying your EBT card and notify you when it is likely to reach you.
How To Prevent Your California Food Stamp EBT Card From Theft?
Your California Food Stamp EBT card is a secure and convenient way to redeem your CalFresh benefits to purchase food for your family. Therefore, you must safeguard it and your EBT PIN to prevent unauthorized use or theft.
Adhere to the following preventive measures:
- You must keep your EBT card out of the reach of outsiders and in a safe place. Your monthly CalFresh benefits are deposited to the same card for as long as you keep receiving them, so do not throw them away.
- Only members of your household who are listed on your CalFresh case (or chosen authorized representatives) should use the EBT card to make CalFresh-eligible purchases.
- Be sure to commit your EBT card PIN to memory. Never write your EBT PIN on your EBT card or keep it close to the card.
- The EBT PIN should only be known by members of your household who are included in the CalFresh case (or chosen authorized representatives).
- Watch out for scam websites or mobile apps that claim to help you apply for CalFresh or access your EBT account. They usually are disguised attempts to steal your CalFresh benefits or personal information.
- If your CalFresh EBT card is damaged, lost, or stolen, you must immediately report the incident right away by calling the EBT customer service at (877) 328 9677.
Note: Your county office may think something is awry and begin closely monitoring your CalFresh account if you repeatedly request replacements for your EBT card. You may also need to give an explanation.
Some Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a replacement EBT card on the same day?
No, you can not get your EBT card replacement on the same day. An EBT card replacement typically takes four to nine business days to arrive in the mail. This standard applies to everyone.
In case of an emergency or further queries, you must contact your county welfare office.
How can I change my EBT card PIN?
If you forget your EBT card PIN or need to change it for other reasons, the simplest way to do it is by calling EBT Customer Service at the toll-free number (877) 328 9677. You can set the new PIN by entering it over the call. Alternatively, you can change your EBT PIN by visiting your county office. A county officer will assist you throughout the procedure. In either case, you will need to go through identity verification as a safety measure.
How can I report EBT fraud?
If you suspect someone is engaging in EBT fraud or misusing their CalFresh benefits, you must report such conduct by contacting the California Fraud Hotline. You can call the Fraud Hotline at 800-344-8477 or send an email to [email protected]. The California Department of Social Services Public Assistance handles all reports with confidentiality, and you have the right to remain anonymous.
