Mixed up CalFresh and CalWORKs? Only getting food benefits but expected cash assistance too

same thing happen to me last yr. did u check ur paperwork? cuz sometimes they approve calfresh faster but the calworks takes longer even if it says approved online

CalFresh and CalWORKs are completely different programs even though you can apply for both at the same time. They have different eligibility requirements and approval processes. It sounds like you might have been approved for CalFresh but are still pending for CalWORKs, or you might not have qualified for CalWORKs based on their criteria (which are stricter than CalFresh). You need to check the Notice of Action you received thoroughly. Look for language that specifically mentions CalWORKs approval or denial. Even if BenefitsCal shows both as approved, the details matter. CalWORKs benefits typically come on a separate schedule from CalFresh and through a different part of your EBT card (cash side vs. food side).

This is EXACTLY how the system is designed to confuse people!! They make everything so complicated on purpose so u get discouraged and don't get all the benefits ur entitled to. They did the SAME THING to me and my 3 kids. The online portal is USELESS because it doesn't tell u the REAL status. My advice - CALL THEM and don't take no for an answer!!!

I went through something similar last year. For CalWORKs, they often require additional verification documents even after the initial approval. Check if they sent you any requests for additional documents with deadlines. Did you complete a SAWS 2 form specifically for CalWORKs? They might have also scheduled you for a CalWORKs orientation which is required before benefits start. Many counties won't start the cash aid until you complete that orientation.

Just to clarify some information here: CalFresh and CalWORKs follow different timelines and processes, even though you apply with the same application: 1. CalFresh decisions typically come faster (30 days or less) 2. CalWORKs requires more verification and often an interview/orientation 3. BenefitsCal showing "approved" could mean your application was accepted for processing, not necessarily that benefits were approved 4. CalWORKs has Welfare-to-Work requirements for most adults unless exempt Your NOA (Notice of Action) letters will specify exactly which program was approved and for how much. If you can't find them, you need to speak directly with your caseworker.

I had the worst time trying to reach my caseworker when I was in a similar situation. Kept getting disconnected or waiting forever on hold. Have you tried using Claimyr? It saved me so much frustration - they basically wait on hold with the county office for you and call you back when a real person answers. I watched their video demo (https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8) and decided to try it when I was desperate about my CalWORKs application status. Worked great and I finally got answers from my worker. Check out their website at claimyr.com if you're struggling to get through on the phone.

i got calfresh n calworks but they came like 2 weeks apart even tho i applied same day. maybe ur calworks is still coming?

To add to what everyone's saying - CalWORKs has very specific requirements beyond just income qualification: 1. You need to participate in Welfare-to-Work activities (job search, training, etc.) unless exempt 2. You must provide verification of all household members (birth certificates, SSNs, etc.) 3. Child support cooperation is required if applicable 4. There's often an asset test (limit of $10,000 in combined resources as of 2025) 5. Most counties require an orientation/appraisal before benefits start If any of these weren't completed, your CalWORKs could be pending even while your CalFresh is active. The NOA should explain exactly why if you were denied.

One more thing - check if you received an EBT card specifically for CalWORKs. Sometimes they issue separate cards for the programs (though usually it's the same card with separate food and cash balances). Also, once approved, CalWORKs benefits typically load on different days than CalFresh - usually on the first of the month or based on the case number.

Update: I finally found the paperwork buried in my stack of mail! You guys were right - my CalFresh was approved but my CalWORKs application was marked "pending additional verification." They needed proof my kids' father isn't providing support and wanted me to fill out child support paperwork. The letter says I have until the 25th to turn it in! I'm going to fill it out tonight and drop it off at the county office tomorrow. Thank you all for helping me figure this out!