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Glad you got it fixed! Did they say anything about this happening again in the future or how to prevent it? I'm paranoid now and thinking I should withdraw all my cash the minute it hits my card each month...
They said this was a rare technical glitch during system maintenance that shouldn't happen again. But tbh I'm with you - I'm definitely going to withdraw my rent money as soon as it deposits from now on. Can't risk going through this stress again!
I just checked with my friend who works for the county (not my county, but still knows the system). She said there was a CalWORKs Cost of Living Adjustment that went into effect in October 2024, AND there was a separate supplemental payment that went out to families with certain circumstances. If you were just approved in December, your base amount should already include the COLA. But you might also qualify for the supplemental payment, which is separate. You need to speak directly with a benefits specialist or supervisor, not just the front-line workers. Be persistent and specifically ask for a supervisor if the regular workers can't help.
This makes sense! I think my worker meant I would get the supplemental payment, not just the regular COLA. I'll ask for a supervisor or benefits specialist specifically. Thank you so much.
good luck actually reaching anybody! i spent THREE DAYS trying to get through to my county office last month. kept getting disconnected after waiting 45+ minutes each time! the system is BROKEN
That's exactly why I ended up using Claimyr. I was in the same situation - couldn't get through after multiple attempts. They connected me to a real person at my county office within 15 minutes. Definitely worth looking into if you're having trouble reaching someone.
Since we're talking about extra money - don't forget to check if you qualify for the Earned Income Tax Credit too if you're working. It's tax season and that can be a huge help. Not related to CalWORKs but just wanted to mention it since we're discussing possible extra funds.
Just wanted to add - make sure when you talk to them that you ask them to check if they accidentally calculated your income as bi-weekly when it's actually semi-monthly, or vice versa. This is a really common mistake. Bi-weekly means every two weeks (26 pay periods per year) while semi-monthly means twice a month (24 pay periods per year). Also, if they do correct it but your benefits are already reduced for next month, ask them to issue an emergency supplemental payment to make up the difference. They can do this, but you have to specifically request it.
I'm definitely going to ask about this! I get paid bi-weekly (every other Friday) but they might have calculated it wrong. And I didn't know they could do emergency supplements - that's really good to know in case my regular payment gets cut. Thank you!!
If you're unable to get this resolved quickly, remember that you have the right to request a fair hearing. When you request a hearing, you can also request "aid paid pending" which means your benefits will continue at the previous level until the hearing decision. You must request the hearing within 10 days of receiving the NOA that reduces your benefits to qualify for aid paid pending. You can request a hearing online at https://acms.dss.ca.gov/ or call the state hearing division at 1-800-743-8525. Make sure you have your case number and the NOA date ready when you call. In my experience working with the system, most income calculation errors can be resolved without a hearing, but it's important to know your rights just in case.
This is excellent advice. Aid paid pending is so important for families to know about. Just to add - make sure you continue to meet all other CalWORKs requirements while waiting for the hearing (like WTW participation if applicable), or you could still have your benefits reduced for other reasons.
Chris King
For anyone still confused about this payment: 1. It's officially called the Child Poverty Reduction Supplement (CPRS) 2. One-time payment for CalWORKs households with children 3. Payment amounts: $47 (1-2 children), $52 (3-4 children), or $61 (5+ children) 4. Distribution dates vary by county and sometimes by case number 5. It will appear on your EBT card with your regular Cash Aid 6. You should receive a notification, but many aren't going out 7. You can check BenefitsCal for the payment (listed as "CPRS Payment") 8. This is separate from your regular monthly benefit Hope this helps clear things up!
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Matthew Sanchez
•This is SO helpful - thank you! I wish the county would explain things this clearly instead of leaving us all confused and having to figure it out on our own!
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Rachel Clark
i just checked my account and i got the money!!!! showed up this morning!! check ur accounts everyone
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Matthew Sanchez
•Just checked and mine is there too! $47 exactly like they said. Such a nice surprise even if it's not a huge amount. Every bit helps with these kids growing out of clothes every month! 😅
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