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!

Based on what you've shared, here's what I recommend: 1. Report your income accurately - the risks of not doing so are too high 2. At your recertification interview, explain your health challenges and that you're gradually building capacity - ask about available transition supports 3. Request information about the "Welfare to Work Specialized Service" programs which can provide additional support during your transition period 4. Ask about the exact calculation of your new benefit amount with your current income - you might still be eligible for partial benefits 5. Request information on all transitional benefits you'll qualify for when cash aid ends Remember that the goal of CalWORKs is to help you become self-sufficient. Your story of gradually increasing work capacity is exactly what the program wants to see, and there should be supports to help you complete that journey without falling backward.

Your situation resonates with me so much. I'm also dealing with chronic health issues while trying to get back to work. One thing that really helped me was asking my worker about the "good cause" exemptions for people with ongoing health conditions - they can extend your time limits and provide additional flexibility during your transition. Also, if you haven't already, document EVERYTHING about your health conditions and how they affect your work capacity. Keep all your medical records updated in your case file. This can help you qualify for extended supports even as your income increases. The income disregard calculation others mentioned is real - for someone with no dependents, they don't count the first $225 of your monthly earnings, then only count 50% of anything above that. So if you're earning $800/month, they'd only count $512.50 toward your income eligibility ($800 - $225 = $575, then $575 x 50% = $287.50, plus the first $225 = $512.50). This might mean you can keep some benefits longer than you think. Definitely be honest but advocate hard for yourself during recertification. Explain your health journey and ask specifically about every transition program available. You've worked so hard to get where you are - don't let fear make you risk losing everything by not reporting.

does anyone know if we get this food benefit thing AND our regular calworks? or do they take it out of our regular amount?

Just wanted to add that if you're having trouble getting through to your county office, you can also try calling early in the morning right when they open - I've found the wait times are usually shorter then. Also, some counties have different phone numbers for different programs, so make sure you're calling the right line for Summer EBT questions. The main CalWORKs line sometimes transfers you around a lot. Hope this helps someone avoid the frustration of sitting on hold forever!

The county will definitely be able to see that your son is on another case. Make sure to bring ID for both yourself and your son (his birth certificate and Social Security card if you have copies), plus the custody order. You should also bring proof of your address, income verification (pay stubs), and any information about other resources you have. The more documentation you bring to your interview, the smoother the process should go.

One thing I'd add - when you submit your application, make sure you specifically mention in writing that this is a shared custody situation with an existing case for the same child. I've seen cases where workers don't realize there's already another case and it causes delays or confusion. Also, if possible, try to schedule your interview during a time when you can bring your son with you - some workers like to see the child in person to verify the relationship, especially in shared custody cases. Good luck with the process!