Thank you everyone for the helpful information! I feel so much better knowing I only need 20 hours and that my current job already covers that. I'm going to gather all my recent paystubs and make copies just to be prepared. I'll definitely ask about the childcare assistance too - that would be a huge help since my mom is getting tired of watching my daughter so often. I really appreciate all of you taking the time to explain everything!

Hey Norman! I just wanted to add that you should also ask about the "good cause" policy during your WTW appointment. If you ever have issues with your work schedule (like if Target reduces your hours or you get sick), you can report "good cause" to temporarily adjust your requirements without losing benefits. Also, since you're already working, you might qualify for the Earned Income Disregard which lets you keep more of your CalWORKs cash aid even while working. Make sure to ask about both of these - a lot of people don't know about them but they can really help!

Thanks everyone for the advice! I called the county today using that Claimyr service and actually got through! The worker said I need to submit verification for my boyfriend and his kids (birth certificates, social, ID) and come in for an appointment. She said his kids can be added but he'll be considered non-needy since he's not the dad of my kids. She also said I should apply for emergency CalFresh since we have more mouths to feed now. I'm going to my appointment next week!

That's awesome that you got through and have an appointment set up! Just wanted to add a couple things that might help when you go in: 1. Bring multiple forms of address verification for everyone (utility bills, lease agreement, school enrollment records if the kids are in school) since proving they all live with you is super important. 2. Ask specifically about the Emergency Aid program while you're there - it can provide immediate help with things like deposits or moving expenses since you just had people move in. 3. Make sure to ask about the timeline for when the benefits would start if his kids get approved. Sometimes there's a delay and knowing when to expect changes helps with budgeting. 4. If any of his kids have special needs or medical conditions, mention that too as it might qualify you for additional support programs. The fact that you reported it right away and are being proactive about getting everything documented properly will definitely work in your favor. Hope your appointment goes smoothly!

the whole system is DESIGNED to nickel and dime us poor people i swear!!!! why do we only get 4 free withdraws when rich people get unlimited?? and why do we have to pay ANYTHING to access OUR OWN MONEY?? the county should be required to give us our full benefits without any bank taking a cut thru fees!!!!

Just wanted to add that some 7-Eleven stores also let you do cash back with no fees when you buy something small! I discovered this when I was desperate for cash late at night and the Bank of America ATM was out of order. Bought a bottle of water for $1.50 and got $40 cash back with no extra charge. Not all 7-Elevens do this though, so you have to ask first. Also congrats on finally getting your benefits sorted out - 3 months of verification issues sounds absolutely exhausting! Hope things get easier for you now.

Not yet, it's next week. I'll update after we find out what happens. Really appreciate all the helpful info from everyone here.

Good luck with your recert appointment next week! Just want to add that you should also ask about any transitional benefits or support services they might have available. Some counties offer short-term rental assistance or utility help for families transitioning from welfare to work. Also, if your wife's hours or income change after the recert, make sure you understand exactly when and how to report those changes so you don't run into issues later. The whole system can be overwhelming but it sounds like you're being proactive about everything which is great. Hope everything works out for your family!

ok update - i just txted my cousin who works for san benito county (next to monterey) and she said right now ALL counties are backed up with benefit theft claims cuz theres been a huge spike in EBT fraud. so monterey aint the only slow one fyi

I'm so sorry this happened to you! I went through the same thing in Monterey County about 6 months ago. The wait was absolutely nerve-wracking, especially with bills piling up. What really helped me was documenting everything - I kept a log of every phone call, who I spoke with, and what they told me. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you request a card replacement in addition to the benefit replacement. They're separate processes and you'll need the new card to access your benefits once they're restored. One more thing - see if your local food bank or churches have emergency assistance programs while you wait. I found a few places that helped with groceries so I could save whatever little money I had left for rent. Hang in there, you'll get through this!