This is such a relief to hear that the grocery store cash back worked! I'm dealing with the same issue right now - my benefits show as issued but ATMs keep declining my card. I was getting so panicked about rent too. Which grocery stores have you all had success with for EBT cash back? I know some stores have limits on how much you can withdraw at once, so I'm wondering if I need to make multiple trips or if there are stores that let you take out larger amounts.

I'm going through the exact same thing right now! My CalWORKs benefits show as issued on the app but every ATM I've tried just says "transaction cannot be completed" or something similar. It's so stressful when you need the money for rent and bills. I'm going to try the grocery store cash back method that Sofia mentioned - seems like that's working for people when ATMs aren't. Has anyone figured out if this is happening statewide or just certain counties? Really hoping this gets resolved soon because I can't keep doing multiple small transactions just to access my own benefits.

It sounds like you did all the right steps so far! Based on recent cases I've heard about: - CalFresh replacement: Usually 3-10 days - Cash Aid replacement: Usually 10-14 days, but can take up to 30 days Since the theft just happened last week, give them a few more days before panicking. But definitely follow up! The squeaky wheel gets the grease with CalWORKs issues. ALSO - one important thing to know: There's a limit to how many theft claims they'll approve in a 12-month period. I believe it's usually 2 theft replacements max per year for Cash Aid, so be extra careful with your new card when it arrives.

I'm so sorry this happened to you! I've been through CalWORKs benefit theft twice and it's absolutely terrifying when you have kids to feed and bills due. From my experience, here's the realistic timeline: - CalFresh: 5-7 days (they're pretty good about this) - Cash Aid: 10-21 days (despite what they tell you about "processing it") DEFINITELY go ask about emergency assistance/immediate need payment ASAP! They can give you a portion of your benefits (usually around $200-400) while your claim processes, but you have to specifically ask for it and emphasize that you have children with immediate needs. Pro tip: When you call to follow up (and you'll need to call A LOT), always ask for the claim status AND ask if there's anything additional they need from you. Sometimes they're waiting for one tiny piece of paperwork but won't tell you unless you ask directly. Also, once you get your replacement benefits, seriously consider setting up direct deposit for the Cash Aid portion. I did this after my second theft and it's been a game changer - no more worrying about someone stealing my card. Keep pushing and don't let them brush you off. Your kids need to eat and you deserve to get your stolen benefits back quickly!

Just wanted to share another tip that helped me when I was new to CalWORKs - if you're having trouble remembering all the important dates and deadlines, create a simple note in your phone with your key info: your deposit date (7th for you!), your SAR7 due date, your county office phone number, and your case number. That way you always have it handy when you need to call or check something. Also, the BenefitsCal website has a message center where you can sometimes get answers without having to call - it's under the "Contact Us" section. Hope this helps and congrats on getting approved!

One thing that really helped me when I first started getting CalWORKs was setting up a simple budget tracker on my phone. Since you know your deposit will hit on the 7th each month, you can plan backwards from there - like if rent is due on the 1st, you'll have about a week cushion each month which is actually pretty good! Also, don't be afraid to ask your worker to slow down during appointments - you have the right to understand what they're telling you. I used to bring a notebook and pen to write things down because I'd get nervous and forget everything too. The whole system can feel overwhelming at first but once you get into the rhythm of it, it becomes much more manageable. Good luck with everything!

sooo did u end up reporting ur job?? what happened with ur benefits??

That's awesome that you reported it and everything worked out! It's such a relief when you actually get a helpful worker who explains things properly. Your experience is a perfect example for anyone else worried about the same thing - the system really is set up to help people transition to work, not punish them for it. Congrats on the new job and for doing the right thing even when it felt scary!

Just want to echo what everyone else is saying - DO NOT mess around with the SAR7 deadline! I've been on CalWORKs for 3 years and I've seen so many people get their benefits cut because they thought they had more time or didn't take it seriously. One thing I didn't see mentioned - if you're struggling to get all your paperwork together by March 1st, you can submit the SAR7 form itself by the deadline and then you usually have 10 days to provide any missing verification documents. But don't rely on this - it's better to get everything in at once. Also, since you mentioned your caseworker didn't explain much when you got approved, I'd suggest asking them (or the eligibility worker) to walk you through the SAR7 process step by step. They're supposed to help you understand what's required. If they won't help, ask to speak to a supervisor. You have the right to get clear information about your case! The BenefitsCal website is definitely your best bet for submitting. I always submit mine there and get the confirmation right away. Just make sure all your documents are clear scans or photos - blurry documents get rejected.

Hey Jamal! I just wanted to add something that might help with your Walmart income reporting. Since you mentioned getting extra hours around Valentine's Day, make sure you're looking at your actual February paystub dates, not just when you worked the hours. Sometimes if you work extra hours at the end of January, that income might show up on a February paystub and needs to be reported on your SAR7. Also, if Walmart gave you any holiday pay or bonuses in February, that all counts as income too. I work retail and learned this the hard way when I forgot to report a small bonus and got questioned about it later. One more thing - if you're having trouble accessing your paystubs, most big employers like Walmart have online portals where you can download them. That might be easier than waiting for paper copies. You've got great advice from everyone here, so you should be all set! Just don't stress too much - as long as you report everything honestly and get it in by March 1st, you'll be fine.