I work as a benefits advocate and see EBT theft cases daily - unfortunately you're not alone in this. Multiple thefts are becoming incredibly common, especially for CalWORKs recipients. The good news is that California law requires replacement regardless of how many times it happens, but yes, there will be additional scrutiny after the second incident. Here's what I tell my clients: 1) Document EVERYTHING - dates, times, amounts, where you think the compromise happened, 2) Be completely honest about your card usage patterns, 3) Request expedited processing due to hardship (mention rent/utilities due), 4) Consider asking for a protective payee arrangement temporarily if you're comfortable with that option. The county has to follow state guidelines, and repeat theft victims are specifically protected under MPP 16-705.4. Don't let them make you feel like you did anything wrong - this is a systemic problem with EBT card security, not user error.

I'm really sorry you're dealing with this stress - having your benefits stolen twice is incredibly frustrating and scary, especially when you're counting on that money for rent. I've been in a similar situation and want to share what worked for me. When I had my second theft, I called the EBT customer service line first thing in the morning (around 8 AM) and got through faster than during peak hours. The key is being very organized with your information - have your card number, the exact date you discovered the theft, and your last legitimate transaction ready. I also took photos of my account balance showing $0 and any transaction history I could access. The worker told me that second thefts are unfortunately common right now due to sophisticated skimming operations targeting benefit recipients. They did process my replacement, but it took about 2 weeks instead of the usual timeframe. One thing that really helped was asking specifically about "emergency food assistance" while waiting - they were able to provide a small amount to get groceries immediately. Don't give up calling if you get disconnected - the system is overwhelmed but they will help you. You're not doing anything wrong, this is happening to thousands of people right now.

Just wanted to add one more resource that helped me a lot when I was going through the CalWORKs application process - your local Family Resource Center! Most counties have them and they offer free help with filling out applications, understanding all the requirements, and even childcare during appointments. I was a single mom working part-time at Target when I applied, and the advocate at my FRC literally sat with me while I filled out the online application and helped me gather all the documents. She also knew which eligibility workers were more patient and helpful, which made a huge difference. You can usually find your local FRC by googling "[your county] Family Resource Center" or asking your CalFresh worker for a referral. Some even have emergency food pantries and free diapers while you're waiting for your benefits to get approved. Also, since you mentioned your kids are young, don't forget to ask about the CalWORKs diaper allowance! It's not much (around $30/month I think) but every little bit helps when you're stretching every dollar. You're asking all the right questions and being such a good advocate for your family. The system is complicated but you're going to figure it out!

Aurora, you've gotten incredible advice here! As someone who's been through this whole process, I just want to emphasize that you're doing everything right by asking questions and gathering information first. One thing I'd add that hasn't been mentioned yet - when you get approved for CalWORKs, they'll issue you an EBT card that works for both your CalFresh benefits AND your cash aid. The cash portion can be withdrawn from ATMs or used like a debit card at most stores. Just be careful about ATM fees - try to use ones at banks or credit unions that don't charge fees to avoid eating into your benefits. Also, since you're working at Walmart, you might want to ask your HR department about their employee assistance programs. Some big employers have partnerships with local agencies that can help you navigate benefits applications or provide additional emergency assistance. It's worth checking! Keep all your documents organized in one folder - you'll need them for your initial application, the interview, and then ongoing reporting requirements. Having everything in one place will save you so much stress down the road. You've got this mama! Your kids are lucky to have someone who's working so hard to make sure they have what they need. The system is complicated but you're clearly smart and determined enough to figure it out.

Hey everyone! I'm also pretty new to CalWORKs and this thread has been incredibly helpful. I wanted to add something I learned from my neighbor who's been receiving benefits for years - she told me to always check the ATM slot where you insert your card. If it looks loose, feels weird, or sticks out more than it should, don't use that machine. Scammers attach fake card readers right over the real ones. Also, I've been using the Wells Fargo ATMs inside their branches during business hours when possible - there are usually employees and security cameras around which makes me feel safer. One more tip: if you ever feel like someone is watching you enter your PIN or following you after using an ATM, go directly to a safe public place like inside a store or restaurant. Trust your instincts! It's better to be overly cautious with our benefits since we depend on them so much.

Hi Yuki! Welcome to CalWORKs - I know it can feel overwhelming at first, especially with all the security concerns. I've been receiving benefits for about 6 months now and wanted to share what's worked for me. I actually called the EBT customer service line (the number on the back of your card) and asked them to walk me through all the security features available. They told me about setting up account alerts, how to temporarily freeze my card if I'm worried about it being compromised, and which ATM networks are safest to use. One thing that really helped my peace of mind was learning I could check my balance online or through the app instead of at ATMs - that way I'm not exposing my card and PIN as often. Also, many counties now offer workshops on EBT safety - mine had one at the local library that covered everything from spotting skimmers to what to do if your benefits get stolen. Might be worth asking your caseworker if your county offers anything similar. The most important thing I learned is to act immediately if something seems off - don't wait and hope it's nothing. Good luck and don't hesitate to ask more questions!

I work as a benefits coordinator and wanted to add some clarification about the income limits that might be helpful. For CalWORKs, they use a "net income" calculation after certain deductions. With VA disability of $3,738 plus dependent benefits, you're likely over the gross limit, but there are some deductions they can apply like work-related expenses if you're employed, certain medical costs, etc. Even if you don't qualify for cash aid, I'd strongly recommend applying because: 1. Stage 1 childcare can cover up to 75% of childcare costs 2. Cal-Learn program if you're pursuing education 3. Mental health services and substance abuse counseling (if needed) 4. Job training programs that might benefit your family long-term The key is being very specific about what services you're interested in when you apply. Don't just ask about "CalWORKs" - ask about "CalWORKs supportive services for families with disabled veterans." The terminology can make a big difference in what information you receive.

I'm also new to this community and wanted to share what we discovered when navigating similar benefits with my husband's disability status. One thing that really helped us was contacting our local Family Resource Center - they often have advocates who specialize in helping veteran families navigate the maze of different benefit programs and income counting rules. What surprised me most was learning that some counties have their own additional programs for veteran families that aren't widely advertised. Our county had an emergency assistance fund specifically for disabled veterans' families that helped us with a security deposit when we had to move due to rent increases. Also, since you mentioned struggling with rent increases - definitely look into your county's Emergency Rental Assistance program if you haven't already. Many of these programs have separate eligibility criteria from CalWORKs and don't count VA disability the same way. We were able to get help with back rent even though we didn't qualify for ongoing cash assistance. The application process can feel overwhelming, but don't let that discourage you from exploring all your options. Every bit of assistance helps when you're trying to make ends meet with a growing family.

Glad to see some payments are coming through! For future reference, it might be a good idea to save this information somewhere. These quarterly system updates usually happen around the same time each quarter (end of February, May, August, and November). If you keep track of these dates, you can plan ahead for potential delays. Honestly it's frustrating they don't communicate this better though!

Same thing happened to me! My 15-month-old's diaper allowance didn't come through today either. I was starting to panic thinking I did something wrong or missed some paperwork. Really glad to see it's just a system issue and not just me. Going to check my balance again now that some people are saying theirs showed up. This whole quarterly maintenance thing is news to me - wish they would send us some kind of heads up about it!