California CalFresh

UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at my county office! They confirmed that CalSAWS is just their new computer system and I don't need to do anything different. They did mention that the format of the Semi-Annual Report might look a little different but will ask for the same information. They also said it's a good idea to create an account on BenefitsCal.com if I haven't already, as that's the website that works with the new system. Thanks everyone for your help!

As someone who just went through the CalSAWS transition in my county last fall, I wanted to share a few practical tips that helped me navigate the switch smoothly. First, don't worry - your benefit amount and eligibility won't change at all. CalSAWS is just the backend system that county workers use. Here's what I wish someone had told me: 1) If you currently use any online services, you'll need to re-register on BenefitsCal.com with the new system, 2) Keep extra copies of all your documents for a few months during the transition - I had one friend whose verification paperwork got temporarily "lost" in the system switch, and 3) Your SAR7 form might look slightly different but asks for the exact same information. The good news is that once everything settles (usually takes about 4-6 weeks), the new system is actually more user-friendly. I can now check my case status, upload documents, and even submit my SAR7 directly from my phone. Just be patient during the initial transition period and don't hesitate to call if you notice anything unusual with your benefits!

my freind told me 2 try the mexican markets around town cuz alot of them take it. if u have a northgate market near u they def take it

Just wanted to add that I've been using my F&V benefits at WinCo Foods too! Not sure if they're in every area but the one near me accepts them. The cashiers there seem pretty familiar with the program which makes checkout way easier. Also discovered that some Sprouts locations take them - called ahead to confirm before making the trip. One tip: I always check my EBT balance before shopping because the fruit/veggie money shows up as a separate balance on the app, so you can see exactly how much you have left to spend.

Quick update for everyone - I just called about this (last name M in Solano) and apparently they're doing Solano County M surnames in two batches - May 28th and June 2nd. So if you haven't received yours yet, you're probably in that June 2nd batch which should be hitting cards by tomorrow or Wednesday. Hope that helps!

Just wanted to update everyone - I'm also in Solano County with last name M and mine finally loaded this morning! So for anyone still waiting, keep checking. It looks like that June 2nd batch Owen mentioned is right on schedule. The amount was $120 per kid which matches what I was expecting. Really grateful to have this extra help with summer groceries - it makes such a difference when the kids are home all day!

Update: I went to my local farmers market yesterday and tried the Market Match program! It was so easy - I just went to the info booth at the entrance, told them I wanted to use my EBT card, and they swiped it for the amount I wanted to spend. They gave me regular tokens for the EBT amount AND bonus tokens for the matching funds to spend on fruits and veggies! My kids had so much fun picking out different produce to try. Thanks everyone for the helpful info! We're definitely going to make this a regular thing.

That's so great to hear about your success at the farmers market! I love seeing families discover this program. Just wanted to add a tip for anyone else reading this - if you're going to a farmers market for the first time, it's worth calling ahead or checking their website to confirm they participate in Market Match/HIP. Some smaller markets might not be set up for it yet. Also, many markets have seasonal hours or might be closed certain months, so double-checking the schedule can save you a trip. The program really does make such a difference for families trying to eat healthy on a budget!

I just want to add that I was confused about this too so I asked when I recertified last month. The eligibility worker told me that for most of these programs, you can use the benefit multiple times throughout the month until you reach their maximum. So if there's a $60 monthly maximum and you spend $27 now, you could potentially use another $33 in matching funds later in the month if your benefits reload. Not all programs work this way though!

Just wanted to share that I work at a community health center and we actually have printed flyers about these incentive programs that we give to our CalFresh clients! If you're having trouble finding info, try asking at local health clinics, food banks, or WIC offices - they usually have the most up-to-date information about which markets and stores participate. Also, some programs reset weekly instead of monthly, so you might be able to use the match multiple times. The lack of clear communication from the county is definitely frustrating, but these community organizations are usually more helpful with the details.