California Advantage EBT Payment Card for Food Stamps


An Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card is used in all states to transfer benefits for participants various public assistance programs. Currently, the California Advantage EBT card system is used for delivering CalFresh (also known as SNAP/Food Stamps) and California Cash Assistance Program benefits. Cash aid benefits are also delivered through EBT card system in the state of California. These cards work just like a regular credit card and you can use it pretty much the same way.

Why use an California Advantage EBT card

An Advantage EBT card provides various benefits to cardholders as well as retailers. Some of these benefits are outlined below.

  • In California the EBT card has replaced checks and paper food stamps

  • It provides tighter security against theft and illegal use of benefits

  • EBT card system offers convenience since it is easy to carry and cardholders can use at any Point-of-Sale (POS) machine

  • The payments are faster with EBT card system

  • Cardholders are able to see their updated balance as soon as a transaction is complete

What should you know about California Advantage EBT?

The Advantage EBT card system works in all the states of the U.S. Cardholders can use it at any Point-of-Sale (POS) machine which makes it extremely convenient to utilize public assistance benefits. A POS machine will read your card and allow you to use benefits after authenticating the session by using Personal Identification Number (PIN).

Here is all the important information you should understand about EBT card system so that you can use it efficiently.

What is Point-of-Sale Machine?

Point-of-Sale (POS) machine is used for using EBT card. The machine reads your electronic card, asks for your PIN, and lets you use your benefits. You will also be able to see your updated balance after transaction is complete.

Personal Identification Number (PIN)

A Personal Identification Number (PIN) is a four-digit number that is used as your secret code for authenticating EBT card at a POS machine. You will need to enter this number in order to use benefits. It is important that you keep this number safe and don’t share it with anyone.

What is this Quest Mark I see on stores?

If a store participates in EBT card system program, it will display a Quest Mark on its upfront so that cardholders can see it. Quest Mark is also displayed on POS machines that accept EBT card. You can look for Quest Mark in your area to find out stores that will allow you to shop using your EBT card benefits.

Once benefits are issues, you are required to use them within 365 days. If they are unused after the limitation period expires, they will be removed from your card and you won’t be able to redeem them.

How to use your EBT card

When your benefits are approved, information will be sent over to your local agency that will be creating an account for you. All the benefits will be transferred to your account every month. You will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card to give you quick access to your benefits.

You can check benefits transaction history, account balance, and claim status by visiting www.ebt.ca.gov. If you are visiting the website for the first time, you will need to create an account. If you are already a member, just provide your login details and access all the information about EBT card and its status.

First time users can visit this link https://www.ebt.ca.gov/caebtclient/clientcreate.recip to create a new account.

When you are on a store that accepts EBT card (you should be able to see Quest Mark displayed on store), you will select your groceries and then go to Point-of-Sale machine to swap the card. In some stores, you may have to hand over your card to a clerk who will swipe the card for you. You will enter your PIN number which will appear decrypted on screen for security reasons. Next, you will check the amount and if you want to pay, you will press YES. After the transaction is complete, you will receive a copy of receipt which will show all important details such as balance, store name, and amount you paid.

You can use your EBT card to purchase different items depending on the program you are participating. However, you are not allowed to use your card for any of the following.

  • You are not allowed to trade, sell, or giveaway your benefits. Your benefits can only be used by you.

  • You can’t sell your benefits for cash.

  • You can only buy items permitted by the program. Check details of the program you are participating to find out allowed items.

How to keep your California Advantage EBT safe

When you receive your EBT card, it is your responsibility to keep it safe and use the benefits as directed. To keep your card safe, follow these basic tips.

  • Never give your card to anyone else to use.

  • Keep your card in a safe place to avoid theft.

  • Keep your PIN secret from others.

  • Don’t use your card on POS machines that seem altered.

  • You should enter your PIN only once to use your benefits. If an ATM machine is asking for benefits twice, be alarmed and report immediately.

  • When entering your PIN, be sure to cover the keypad with your hands so that no one can see what you entered.

  • Change your Pin regularly.

  • Learn about EBT issues so that you can proactively fight them.

If you have lost or stolen your California Advantage EBT card, you should immediately call EBT Customer Service at 877 328 9677 and file a claim. You should also file a police report and contact your county office immediately.

Links for getting an EBT card

If you want to receive a California Advantage EBT card, you will have to qualify for SNAP and/or TANF. You can learn more about applying for benefits in California by visiting this link.

You can apply for benefits online by visiting the California benefits website (http://www.benefitscal.org/). The website provides a one-stop solution for applying to public assistance programs in the state of California.