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Also, when you talk to your CalWORKs worker about adding your baby to your case, ask about the CalWORKs Special Needs Pregnancy/Newborn Supplement. Since your baby was born before January 1st, you should be eligible for additional funds. It's not a lot (around $100), but every bit helps right now. And don't forget you're exempt from Welfare to Work requirements for the first 12 months after giving birth, so you don't need to worry about those participation hours right now.
Dont even get me started on this!!! They act like were lying when we report theft!!! My worker basically accused me of making it up!!! Im so done with the whole system!!
Here are some practical steps to protect yourself going forward: 1. Switch to direct deposit if your county offers it (most do now) 2. If you must use the EBT card: - Change your PIN monthly - Check for skimmers before inserting card (wiggle the card reader) - Only use bank branch ATMs (not standalone ones) - Never use at gas stations or convenience stores - Consider withdrawing all cash on benefit day 3. If theft happens again: - Report to BofA immediately (same day) - Report to county worker same day - Specifically request "immediate need" replacement - Cite AB 1614 about the 10-day replacement requirement - Document everyone you speak with 4. Keep checking your EBT account regularly even if you think you've emptied it
This is super helpful!! No one at the county office gave me ANY of this info. All they said was "don't share your PIN" which I NEVER did! I'm going to ask about direct deposit this week. Do you know if there's a specific form I need to fill out for that?
You'll need to fill out form CW 8 (Direct Deposit Authorization) and provide a voided check or a direct deposit form from your bank. Your worker should have this form, but if they don't, you can find it online by searching "California CW 8 form". Not all counties process these quickly, so follow up if you don't see action within a couple weeks.
u should also check ur EBT app if u have it set up. sometimes it will tell u when the deposit is scheduled even before it hits ur account
Just to clarify a common misconception - there are no more "COVID deposits" for CalWORKs. Those emergency allotments ended back in 2023. What you're referring to is just your regular CalWORKs Cash Aid payment. The deposit schedule hasn't changed, so if your normal deposit day is the 5th, that's when you'll get it, Easter or not.
Just wanted to say congrats on the new job though! I went through something similar last year and it was rough at first but after a few months I was actually doing better overall than when I was just on aid. Hang in there while you get this sorted out.
Mary Bates
Quick tip: make sure you sign up for text or email reminders about your SAR 7 due dates! I almost missed mine too, but got a text reminder 10 days before it was due. You can set this up on BenefitsCal.com or ask your worker to add those alerts to your account. Has saved me from this exact situation multiple times.
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Demi Lagos
•That's a great idea. I think I've been getting mail reminders but they probably got mixed in with all the other mail. Will set up text alerts once this mess is fixed.
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Demi Lagos
UPDATE: I used that Claimyr service and got through to my worker! She said they'll process my SAR 7 by the end of the week and my Cash Aid should be restored within 3-5 business days after that. She also submitted an emergency request so I might get it faster. CalFresh won't be retroactive but will start again once the SAR 7 is processed. And I asked about the diaper supplement - apparently I was already getting it but didn't realize it was included in my regular payment. Everyone who commented - THANK YOU SO MUCH for your help during this stressful time!!! Lesson learned about turning in forms on time.
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Mason Lopez
•That's great news! So glad you got through to someone who could help. I set a calendar reminder on my phone now for every SAR 7 and recertification deadline after my experience. Never making that mistake again!
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