How do I receive my CalWORKs benefits?

If you are eligible for CalWORKs benefits, you will be issued your benefits on an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card unless you request that your benefits are directly deposited into your personal bank account. You will need to set up a PIN number for the card to use it, and can then use the card at most grocery stores and ATMs.[1485]

To avoid unnecessary fees and surcharges when withdrawing your CalWORKs cash, you should only use the card at ATMs with the “MoneyPass” symbol, or the same “Quest Mark” symbol that appears on the card-sleeve. To find free ATM locations, look for the appropriate symbol, ask your county worker, or visit the following website: http://www.ebtproject.ca.gov/Library/Cash_Access.pdf.

This “MoneyPass” symbol means it’s FREE to use your EBT card at that ATM location.

The “Quest Mark” symbol is on storefronts, checkout lanes, ATMs, and credit card machines to tell you that your EBT card can be used there.

    If the “Quest Mark” looks like this: . . . it’s only for cash benefits.
    If the “Quest Mark” looks like this: . . . it’s only for CalFresh (food stamps) benefits.
    If the “Quest Mark” looks like this: . . . it can be used for BOTH CalFresh and cash benefits.
  1. 1485

    California Electronic Benefit (EBT) Card, State of Cal. Health and Human Servs. Agency, http://www.cdss.ca.gov/cdssweb/entres/forms/English/Pub387.pdf.