I went through something similar last year and it was such a nightmare! The key thing that helped me was being super persistent and documenting everything. When I finally got through to LCSA, it turned out they had sent the appointment notice to an address I hadn't lived at for over a year, even though I had updated my address with CalWORKs multiple times. Make sure to ask them specifically what address they have on file for you - that might be the issue right there. Also, don't just rely on phone calls. I ended up going to the LCSA office in person and refusing to leave until someone met with me. Sometimes showing up physically gets results faster than waiting on hold for hours. The whole system is designed to make us give up, but don't let them wear you down! You did nothing wrong by providing all the information you had about your daughter's father.

I'm dealing with something really similar right now! The missed appointment thing seems to happen to so many people - it's like they're setting us up to fail. One thing that really helped me was asking my CalWORKs worker to put a note in my file about any address changes, and then I started taking photos of any mail I sent to document that I'm trying to cooperate. Also, when you do get through to LCSA, ask them to read you the exact information they have for the father - sometimes there are little errors in names or dates that can cause problems. I know it's exhausting having to prove you're doing everything right when you already are, but hang in there. The system is broken but you can get through this! Make sure to ask for that retroactive payment once you get it sorted out.

also dont 4get about reporting income changes!! if u make more money than ur income reporting threshold (IRT) b4 recert time u gotta tell them in 10 days even if its not recert time yet. my cousin got in trouble for not reporting when she got extra shifts at work and they made her pay back $$$

One more thing to add - if you're worried about missing your recert deadline, you can also set up text alerts through your county's system (if they offer it) or just call your worker about 60 days before your deadline to confirm they have your correct mailing address. I learned the hard way that my address got mixed up in their system and packets were going to my old place for months! Also, keep copies of EVERYTHING you submit - whether online or by mail. Take screenshots of your online submissions and keep them in a folder on your phone. If there's ever a dispute about what you submitted or when, having that proof can save you a lot of hassle. The system isn't perfect but being organized and proactive definitely helps!

Hey Javier, I'm in Sacramento County too and just went through this process a few months ago. Sacramento is actually pretty decent with processing times compared to some other counties, but they're definitely understaffed right now. A few things that might help: First, try calling the Sacramento County main CalWORKs line at (916) 874-3100 right at 8am - that's when you'll have the best chance of getting through. If you can't get through on the phone, you can also go to one of their offices in person. The main office is at 2700 Fulton Ave, and they have walk-in hours for emergency situations. Since you mentioned your rent is due next week, make sure to tell them this is an emergency situation when you do get through. They have expedited processing for people facing homelessness or with no income. Also, ask about emergency aid - they sometimes have one-time emergency assistance available while your regular application is being processed. One more tip - if you're having trouble getting through by phone, try calling the statewide CalWORKs hotline at 1-877-847-3663. Sometimes they can see your application status and connect you directly to your county worker. Good luck!

I'm also new to the CalWORKs system and went through something similar recently. One thing I learned is that you can actually check the status of your application by calling the automated CalWORKs line and entering your case number (if you have one) or SSN. Sometimes this gives you more info than what shows up in BenefitsCal. Also, if you're really struggling financially right now, look into local food banks and emergency assistance programs while you wait. Sacramento has several food distribution sites that don't require any paperwork - just show up. The River City Food Bank and Sacramento Food Bank are both good options. Many churches also have emergency funds for rent assistance. Don't give up on the application though - the benefits are definitely worth the hassle once you get through the process. Keep trying to call and definitely follow Mateo's advice about the emergency processing. You've got this!

oh and something nobody mentioned yet!! make sure ur EBT card is set to ur new address ASAP cuz thats different from the CalWORKs system sometimes

Just wanted to add one more thing that helped me when I moved counties - take photos of your SAR7 before you submit it AND get a screenshot of the confirmation if you submit online. I had to prove I submitted mine on time when there was confusion during my transfer. Also, if you can't get through to San Diego on the phone right away, don't panic! As long as you get that SAR7 in by the deadline, your benefits should continue while you work on the transfer process. The most important thing is meeting that Tuesday deadline - everything else can be sorted out after!

So glad you got it sorted out! This system is so stressful sometimes. Make sure you save your worker's direct number for next time - that's what I learned to do after my third payment issue 😂

Wow, what a relief that it was just a processing error and not something more serious! I'm dealing with a similar situation right now where my payment is late and I'm terrified it's going to affect my housing. It's so stressful when you're counting on these benefits and then they just don't show up with no explanation. The fact that these kinds of system glitches can happen is really concerning - like how many people are going without basic necessities because of technical errors? Thank you for updating us on what happened, it gives me hope that my issue might be something simple too. Going to try that Claimyr service that was mentioned!