California CalFresh

Almost forgot! If you have kids under 18, check with their schools too. Many Orange County school districts have emergency family resource funds through their McKinney-Vento programs, especially if you're at risk of losing utilities which could make your housing unstable. My daughter's school ended up helping with a $200 emergency utility grant last year when we were struggling.

I've been in a similar situation with high utility bills while on CalFresh. One thing that really helped me was getting a home energy audit through SoCalGas - they do them for free and can identify issues like the heater problem you mentioned. They found that my old water heater was using way more gas than it should have been. Also, if you're renting, your landlord is actually responsible for maintaining appliances in working order, so definitely push them to check that heater ASAP. A malfunctioning heater could be costing you hundreds every month. While you're waiting for LIHEAP approval, you might also try calling your local United Way chapter - they sometimes have small emergency grants that can bridge the gap. Good luck, and don't give up - there really are resources out there to help!

my cousin works for calfresh in san diego county and she told me they got specific instructions not to count that tax refund thing for any benefits including calfresh. so your definitely fine dont worry about it

This whole thread has been so helpful! I'm in a similar situation - got my Middle Class Tax Refund ($600) in January and have been losing sleep over whether to report it. Based on what everyone's saying, especially @Dallas Villalobos with the detailed explanations, it sounds like we're all good. I already used mine for groceries and utilities anyway. It's just frustrating that there's no clear communication from the county about these things when they happen. Like why didn't they send out a notice saying "hey, this new tax refund doesn't count for benefits"? Would save everyone so much stress!

To answer your earlier question - you don't need to wait for recertification. You can request the Restaurant Meals Program designation at any time during your certification period. Just submit the doctor's verification and request the RMP addition to your case. Once approved, they'll update your EBT card to work at participating restaurants, which you can view on the county website. Also, you can add this even if you're in the middle of your certification period.

I'm glad you found this thread helpful! As someone who's been through the CalFresh system, I wanted to add that you should also ask your county worker about any local food pantries or meal delivery programs for disabled individuals while you're waiting for the RMP approval. Some counties have partnerships with organizations that can provide prepared meals during the application process. Also, keep copies of everything you submit - the doctor's note, your application for RMP, etc. Sometimes paperwork gets lost in the system and you'll need to resubmit. Good luck with your application!

Just to clarify some confusing information in this thread, P-EBT has specific eligibility criteria and timeframes. For the current 2024-2025 school year program: 1. Children must qualify for free or reduced-price meals at a school participating in the National School Lunch Program 2. Regular benefits run through the end of the school year (typically June 2025) 3. Summer P-EBT typically covers June-August 2025 4. Benefit amounts are currently $120 per eligible child per month during the school year 5. Summer benefits are typically a one-time payment of $395 per eligible child The state should send you a notice before the program ends. If your situation changes, you should contact your county office.

I wanted to add something that might help with your planning - keep an eye on your EBT card balance regularly because P-EBT deposits don't always happen on the same date each month. I've noticed they can vary by a few days, which threw off my grocery shopping schedule when I was budgeting really tight. Also, if you haven't already, consider looking into local food banks and pantries as a backup plan for when P-EBT ends. Many don't have income requirements and can help bridge the gap. Our local pantry at the community center has been a lifesaver during tight months. You can usually find locations through 211 (just dial 2-1-1) or the California Association of Food Banks website.

Has anyone tried the chip-enabled EBT cards? My worker mentioned California is slowly rolling them out to help prevent skimming. I'm on the waitlist but they said it could be months before I get one in my county.

This is absolutely infuriating! I'm a single mom with two kids and had my benefits stolen twice in the last 5 months - $467 in December and $421 just last month. The stress of not knowing if your food money will be there when you need it is unbearable. I've been following some of the advice here - downloaded the BenefitsCal app to freeze my card between uses, joined the Facebook group someone mentioned, and I'm definitely going to file for that administrative hearing. The fact that we have to become experts on federal regulations and jump through all these hoops just to feed our families is ridiculous. What really gets me is how the county workers act like WE'RE the problem when we report theft. Like we're trying to scam the system instead of being victims of actual criminals. The whole system needs an overhaul, and I'm ready to fight for it. Count me in for any coordinated media outreach or legal action!