so glad u got it fixed!!! make sure u get it ALL in writing tho. i've had verbal promises from workers before that never happened. ask them to mail or email u confirmation of everything they're fixing!!

That's great news that you got it sorted out! Just wanted to add - if you don't receive that Notice of Action within a week, definitely follow up. Sometimes the system glitches and doesn't generate the paperwork even when workers say they've made the changes. Also, since you mentioned Regina wasn't helpful before, you might want to ask if you can be assigned to the worker who actually helped you fix everything. You have the right to request a specific caseworker if one has been more responsive to your needs. The $380 CalFresh amount sounds about right for your situation once they're calculating it correctly. Make sure they're also applying the excess shelter deduction for your high housing costs - that can make a big difference in the monthly amount.

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!

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!

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.