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CalFresh and EBT News and Updates

Please check here to find all the most up-to-date news and announcements regarding CalFresh benefits and the Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) program!

Get the convenience and security you need with the new ebtEDGE Mobile App!

ebtEDGE is the new app with the following features to make it easier than ever to manage and protect your cash and food benefits:

  • Freeze and unfreeze your EBT account
  • Reset your EBT card PIN
  • Block out-of-state and online transactions
  • Access the app using fingerprint or face ID
  • Manage app security, including troubleshooting and remove/delete accounts on the app
  • Create and view status of EBT system dispute that occurs due to system error
  • View EBT transaction history
  • Set your preferred language

For more information, here are some Frequently Asked Questions.

The ebtEDGE app is free to download and can be found in the Apple App and Google Play stores as of November 10, 2023! The FIS ebtEDGE web and mobile apps are the only apps the cardholders should use for the management of their EBT benefits. Cardholders should not use third-party apps.

Logo of the ebtEDGE app

Important Information for New Applicants and Current CalFresh Customers!

Ending of CalFresh Temporary Student Eligibility Exemption:

Flyer also available in: (Spanish) (Vietnamese) (Cantonese) (Armenian)

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, California was able to extend CalFresh eligibility to students eligible for work study and students with an Expected Family Contribution of zero dollars for financial aid.

Starting June 10th, 2023, the two mentioned temporary student exemptions will no longer apply to college students applying for CalFresh. 

Current college students, that are already receiving CalFresh benefits, would have to meet a permanent student exemption during their next renewal to maintain their CalFresh eligibility starting July 2023 and on. 

Do you still have questions? Read these Questions and Answers. This Q&A can also be found in the following languages: Spanish Vietnamese Chinese Armenian

Interview Waivers:

Initial Certification and Recertification Interviews are not required if all of the following requirements are fulfilled:

  • If a complete application is received and it has been determined that the information provided on the application is not questionable or no further clarification is needed,
  • If the identity of the applicant/participant is verified, and
  • If there is no mandatory verification missing.

However, an interview will be required if the County determines that the information provided is questionable or requires additional clarification.

Interview waivers are in effect until March 31, 2024. 

EBT SCAMS

Notable EBT texting scams to be concerned for:

  • Text message from 877-353-1670 that says “#EBT blocked # call 877-353-1670 or email 5949589@ehsd.org.”
  • Text message from 707-419-6161 that says to contact 707-419-6161 regarding their EBT card. The automated message system impersonated the California EBT Customer Service Helpline welcome message. After they followed the prompt to enter their Card Number and PIN they were told their card was successfully reactivated. Their benefits issued for the month of November were withdrawn at an ATM 22 minutes later.

Other known EBT scams also ask for personal information, card number, and/or PIN by:

  • Offering a free “government cell phone” or free gift cards
  • Posing as a “protection plan” company that is part of the state program
  • Claiming to be “concerned citizens” posting warnings about EBT card security with a telephone number similar to a real customer service helpline telephone number (maybe one number is different)

PLEASE NOTE: It is important for you to protect your identity and case information. DPSS will never ask for you to click on suspicious links or for your personal security PIN. If you suspect that you are a victim of any scams, call Customer Service (24 hours a day, 7 days a week) at 1-877-328-9677 or 
1-800-735-2929 (for Telecommunication Relay Services for the hearing/speech) for help right away.

Use Your EBT Benefits Online!

Check out this flyer for information on using your EBT card to purchase groceries online.

Frequently asked questions and answers to help you navigate the EBT Online Purchase services.

Participating Retailer Fact Sheet.