I'm so glad you got this sorted out! Your experience really highlights how important it is to get the right information directly from your worker. For anyone else reading this thread who might be in a similar situation, here are the key takeaways: 1. Tax refunds (including EIC) are NOT counted as income for CalWORKs or CalFresh 2. EIC specifically doesn't count as a resource for 12 months after receiving it 3. Always report tax refunds on your SAR7 for transparency, but label them clearly as "TAX REFUND" 4. Keep documentation (bank statements + actual tax return) in case of future questions 5. The resource limit for a family of 3 is $10,211 It's frustrating how confusing the system can be, but threads like this really help other families navigate these situations. Thanks for sharing your resolution - it'll definitely help someone else who's panicking about the same thing!

As someone who just went through my first SAR7 process last month, I can totally relate to the panic about reporting things correctly! The advice here is spot-on - I also had a tax refund (smaller than yours, but still nerve-wracking) and my worker told me the same thing about labeling it clearly. One thing that helped me was calling the day before my SAR7 was due to double-check I filled it out right. Even though it took forever to get through, having that confirmation gave me so much peace of mind. The system is really confusing for newcomers, but this community has been a lifesaver for understanding the rules. Glad you got it sorted out!

I went through this exact same situation about 6 months ago - lost my job and needed help with my two kids. Here's what I learned: definitely apply online at BenefitsCal.com, but also call the county office the same day you submit to let them know you applied and ask about expedited processing since you're facing eviction. They have something called "Immediate Need" that can get you emergency cash within 3 days if you qualify. One thing that really helped me was having all my documents ready BEFORE starting the application - it took me about 45 minutes to complete once I had everything organized. The system does save your progress if you need to take breaks. Also, don't just wait for them to call you for the interview. After 3-4 days, start calling them daily to check on your application status. Be persistent but polite - the squeaky wheel gets the grease with these offices. Keep calling until you get that interview scheduled. Good luck! I know how stressful this is but hang in there - the help is available, you just have to push through the bureaucracy to get it.

I'm so grateful for all this detailed advice everyone! I'm feeling much more confident about starting the application process now. Just to make sure I understand correctly - after I submit on BenefitsCal, I should call the county office that same day to mention I applied AND specifically ask about Immediate Need processing due to my rent situation, right? And I should mention the potential eviction both in the online application AND when I call? Also, for those of you who went through this recently - about how long did your interview take? I'm trying to plan around my kids' schedules since childcare has been tight since losing my job. Really appreciate this community - you all are lifesavers!

I want to clarify something about HSP (Housing Support Program) since there seems to be some confusion. HSP is specifically designed for families who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. If you're currently housed but struggling with your rent, you might instead qualify for the Permanent Housing Assistance (PHA) program through CalWORKs. PHA can provide help with move-in costs or temporary rental subsidies for up to 2 years. You need to be working with a case manager who can help determine your eligibility. Some counties also have their own specific housing programs for CalWORKs recipients. Definitely get clarification about which specific program you might qualify for - the names and requirements can get confusing.

I'm also pregnant and went through this exact situation with LA County CalWORKs! Here's what I learned: definitely ask about the Pregnancy Special Needs payment ($30/month) - you need to bring recent pregnancy verification from your doctor. For housing help, ask specifically about both HSP and PHA programs since they have different requirements. I also found out about something called the Cal-Learn program if you're under 19 or in school - it can provide additional support. Don't give up if your worker doesn't know about these programs - I had to speak to a supervisor to get proper information. Also, start preparing your documents now for when the baby comes because your grant will increase once you add them to your case. Good luck mama!

I'm so sorry you're going through this - having a newborn is stressful enough without having to fight for benefits you're entitled to! Unfortunately, this delay is way too common. I went through something similar when I had my daughter and it took them 4 months to process adding her to my case. One thing that helped me was documenting everything - dates I called, who I spoke with, what they said. When I finally got a supervisor, having all those details helped show the pattern of delays. Also, if you haven't already, make sure to ask specifically about the "restoration of lost benefits" that Connor mentioned - it's worth a shot even if they usually say no. The diaper stipend through CalWORKs is definitely real and should be automatic, so definitely follow up on that. And don't give up on pushing for those retroactive CalFresh benefits - you reported everything properly and the delay was on their end. Keep fighting for what you and your baby deserve! 💪

I'm really sorry this happened to you! Three months is absolutely ridiculous for adding a newborn to your case. While CalFresh typically doesn't backdate benefits, there are some exceptions for county processing errors. A few things to try: 1. Request a "fair hearing" if you believe the county made an error - you have 90 days from when they denied your request for retroactive benefits 2. File a complaint with the state if the delay was unreasonable (which 3 months definitely is!) 3. Make sure you're getting all the benefits you qualify for now - the $30/month diaper stipend through CalWORKs, WIC for formula, and check if you qualify for any emergency food assistance programs in your area Document everything moving forward and don't let them brush you off. You did everything right by reporting within 10 days and providing documentation. The delay was entirely on their end and your baby needed that support during those months. Keep pushing - sometimes persistence pays off even when they initially say no!

happened to me too last month. i got the money back but took like 20 days. Call RIGHT NOW, dont wait. the cops didnt do anything btw, just gave me a report number and never followed up

I'm so sorry this happened to you! EBT theft is unfortunately very common right now. I had my benefits stolen twice last year - once from a skimmer at a corner store ATM and once from what they think was a data breach. Here's what worked for me to speed up the process: When you go to your county office, bring a printed copy of your EBT transaction history (you can get this online or by calling the EBT customer service number). Having those unauthorized transactions highlighted really helped my case worker process everything faster. Also, ask specifically for the "Immediate Need" emergency assistance - they can give you some cash for groceries and urgent bills while your claim is being investigated. One tip that's helped me avoid future theft: I now withdraw my entire Cash Aid balance on the day it posts and keep it in cash at home rather than leaving it on the card. It's not ideal but it's safer than risking another theft. You can also ask your worker about direct deposit to a bank account if you have one. Stay persistent with the county office - call every few days for updates on your claim. The squeaky wheel gets the grease with these situations. Good luck and I hope you get your money back quickly!