Do I write my CalFresh case number on the renewal envelope before mailing it back?

You don't need to write your case number on the outside of the envelope. The pre-addressed envelope is already coded to route to the correct department, and all your paperwork inside has your case number. They scan everything when it arrives anyway. Just make sure you've signed all the required spots on your recertification forms and included any verification documents they requested!

i never put my case # on envelope and been on calfresh 7 years now. just make sure u got all ur stuff inside. did u remember to send proof of rent/utilities too? thats the part most peeps forget and then they get less benefits

ALWAYS MAKE COPIES OF EVERYTHING BEFORE YOU MAIL!!! I learned this the hard way when they claimed they "never received" my renewal packet even though I mailed it. No case number on envelope needed but I started writing "ATTENTION: CALFRESH RECERTIFICATION" in big letters after that disaster. Also I take pictures of the sealed envelope before I drop it in the mail now. The system is BROKEN and they will use ANY excuse to cut your benefits!!!

I was in a similar situation last month with my recertification and got tired of wondering if my paperwork was received. I ended up using Claimyr.com to get through to an actual person at my county office to confirm everything. Their service connected me to a worker in about 10 minutes when I'd been trying for days on my own. There's a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. It was worth it for the peace of mind knowing my renewal was actually in the system.

No need to write the case number on the envelope itself. However, here's a helpful tip: I always add a small sticky note on the INSIDE of my packet with my case number, name, and a quick list of what's enclosed. This has helped several times when pages got separated during processing. Also, be aware that for 2025 recertifications, they're prioritizing checking work registration requirements for ABAWDs (Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents), so if that applies to you, make sure that section is thoroughly completed.

wait is the renewal the same as the SAR7? I just got something in the mail but it says Semi-Annual Report not renewal and now I'm confused... my benefits run out in October is this the same form??

btw did anyone elses benefits go down this month? mine dropped by like $75 and nobody told me why

Update: Mailed my renewal yesterday and didn't write anything on the envelope. Also took everyone's advice and made copies of everything, added a sticky note with my info, and got a tracking number from USPS (it was only $4). Thanks for calming my anxiety everyone!

That's awesome that you got everything sorted out! The tracking number was definitely a smart move - I started doing that too after having issues with the mail system. Just wanted to add that if you don't hear back within those 10 business days Amara mentioned, don't panic right away. Sometimes the confirmation notices get delayed in the mail even when they processed your renewal on time. You can always check your EBT card balance or log into your BenefitsCal account to see if your benefits continued without interruption as another way to confirm everything went through smoothly.

Just went through this exact same stress last month! You definitely don't need to write your case number on the envelope - the pre-addressed envelope they give you is already set up to route correctly to their processing center. I was overthinking it too but my worker confirmed that as long as your case number is on all the forms inside (which sounds like you've got covered), you're good to go. The most important thing is making sure you didn't miss any required signatures or documents they asked for. Sounds like you're being super careful which is great - that attention to detail will serve you well! Hope your renewal goes smoothly.

Just wanted to chime in as someone who's been through multiple renewals - you're absolutely right not to stress about the envelope! The case number goes on the forms inside, not the envelope itself. One thing I learned that might help others too is to write "DO NOT BEND - CALFRESH DOCUMENTS" on the envelope if you're including any photos or documents that could get damaged. Also, if you're ever unsure about timing, remember that you can submit your renewal up to 45 days before your current certification expires, so you don't have to wait until the last minute. Sounds like you handled everything perfectly though!