UPDATE: I finally got through to someone at the county! Used that Claimyr service and it actually worked. The worker said my claim was approved 5 days ago but there was a system error preventing it from being loaded onto my card. They're manually processing it now and I should have the funds within 48 hours. She also fixed my BenefitsCal account - apparently it was blocked for security reasons after the theft, exactly like some of you said. Thanks everyone for your help and suggestions!

This is such a relief to read your update! I've been following your situation and was really worried about your rent deadline. It's incredible that the county had already approved your claim 5 days ago but didn't tell you - that's exactly the kind of communication breakdown that makes this process so much harder than it needs to be. For anyone else dealing with similar issues, this really shows how important it is to keep pushing and trying different approaches. The Claimyr service seems to be a game-changer for actually getting through to someone who can help. I'm definitely bookmarking that for future reference. Hope you get your funds loaded soon and can finally get some peace of mind! Thanks for updating us - it gives hope to others going through the same nightmare.

This is such a perfect example of why direct communication with the county office is so crucial when BenefitsCal isn't working properly! I've been receiving CalWORKs for about a year now and have learned that the online system can be unreliable for so many different reasons - from simple glitches to major data migrations like what happened to you. Your experience really highlights how important it is not to assume the worst when the website shows errors. I'm saving this thread because the troubleshooting steps everyone shared are gold - especially the advice about asking specific questions like "Has my case been discontinued?" and requesting discontinuance dates/reason codes if needed. It's also really helpful to know that cases can temporarily disappear during system updates while still being active in the county's internal system. Thanks for following up with the resolution - it gives me so much more confidence about how to handle similar situations in the future!

What a relief that it turned out to be just a system migration! This whole thread has been so educational for me as someone who's still fairly new to the CalWORKs system. I had no idea that technical issues like data migrations could temporarily make cases disappear while still being active in the county's internal system. The collective wisdom shared here - from checking mail carefully for notices that might look like junk mail, to asking specific questions about discontinuance status when calling the county office - is invaluable. It really shows how important it is to call the county directly rather than relying solely on BenefitsCal when something seems wrong. Thanks to everyone who shared their experiences and advice, and especially to Oliver for following up with the resolution. This kind of community support makes navigating these stressful situations so much more manageable!

I'm a caseworker at DSS and wanted to reassure you - being a few days late with your SAR 7 is not uncommon and you're handling it the right way by going in person tomorrow. Since you're within the 10-day grace period, your benefits shouldn't be discontinued. A few professional tips: - Complete EVERY field on the form, even if it's N/A - Bring originals of all pay stubs and any other income verification - Ask for a receipt with the date stamp when you submit it - If there are any questions about your form, they can help you correct it on the spot The most important thing is getting a complete, accurate form submitted. Your regular payment date might be delayed by a day or two while it processes, but you should still receive your full benefit amount for this month. Try not to stress too much - you're being proactive and that's what matters most.

I'm so glad you're getting such helpful advice here! Just wanted to add one more thing that might help - when you go to the office tomorrow, if the wait is really long, you can also ask if they have a "same day processing" option for SAR 7s. Some offices can expedite late forms if you explain your situation (single mom, rent due, etc.). Also, don't forget to bring a pen and maybe some snacks/water since you might be there for a while. The staff are usually pretty understanding when people come in right away after realizing they're late - it shows you're trying to stay compliant. You're doing everything right by going in person first thing tomorrow. Sending you positive thoughts that everything works out smoothly! 🤞

Hey Aisha! Welcome to CalWORKs - I know it can feel overwhelming at first but you've got this! Just wanted to add a couple things that helped me when I started: 1. Download the "ebtEDGE" app - it's the official EBT app and you can check your balance without it counting as a transaction (unlike ATM balance checks). Super convenient! 2. If you're ever unsure about a transaction, you can always ask the cashier to show you the PIN pad before you enter anything. Most are happy to help. 3. Keep your EBT card receipts for a while - they show your remaining balance and can help you track spending. 4. Pro tip: Some stores like Target and CVS let you get cash back even on small purchases (like buying gum), so you don't always need to find an ATM. The learning curve is real but once you get the hang of it, accessing your benefits becomes much easier. Don't hesitate to ask questions here - this community is super supportive!

Just wanted to chime in as someone who's been navigating the system for a while - you're asking all the right questions! One thing I learned the hard way is to always have a backup plan for accessing your cash. I keep a mental list of 2-3 nearby BofA ATMs, plus a couple stores where I know I can get cash back easily. Sometimes ATMs go down or run out of cash (especially around benefit deposit days), so having options saves you from getting stuck. Also, if you ever move or your living situation changes, make sure to update your address with both CalWORKs AND the EBT customer service line - they're separate systems and both need to know where to send important mail about your benefits. Hope your situation improves soon, and don't hesitate to ask more questions as they come up!

Update: Finally got through to my worker (used that Claimyr service someone mentioned and it actually worked). She said CalFresh should be back within 7 days and for Cash Aid they're expediting it because I have kids, so hopefully within 10-14 days. She also approved a small immediate need payment that I can pick up tomorrow! Not the full amount but enough to help with some bills until everything gets sorted. Thanks everyone for the advice!

So glad to hear you got some help! This is exactly why I always tell people to ask specifically about immediate need payments - most workers don't mention it unless you know to ask. For future protection, definitely set up those text alerts for your EBT card transactions. I get a text every time my card is used and it's saved me twice when I caught unauthorized charges within minutes. Also, never carry your EBT card and your PIN written down together - I learned that the hard way. Keep your PIN memorized and maybe write it down somewhere safe at home. Hope your benefits get fully restored quickly!