You can also report the changes online through BenefitsCal if you have an account set up. That way you have documentation that you reported within the 10-day timeframe. I always take screenshots of everything I submit online because the county "lost" my reports twice before.

Good point about childcare assistance! Since you're starting a new job, make sure to ask about: 1. CalWORKs childcare benefits 2. Work expense deductions (they don't count all your income against you) 3. Earned Income Disregard (first $225 + 50% of remaining earnings are disregarded) Your benefits might actually increase for a while even with your new job, especially since your partner's income is no longer counted in the household.

@username5 With a child under 6, your WTW requirement is only 20 hours per week, not 30. Since you're working 15-20 hours, you're right at the minimum. Your worker should have discussed WTW with you if it was an issue. If they're just fixing the income calculation, that's probably all it was. But it wouldn't hurt to ask about your WTW status the next time you speak with them, just to make sure you're meeting requirements. There are also exemptions available if you can't meet the hours requirement for good cause (like lack of childcare, health issues, etc.).

Thank you so much for the clarification! I had no idea the hour requirement was different with a younger child. I'll definitely ask about this next time I talk to my worker.

yah defintly go in person!!!! calling is useless they never pick up. i waited 2 hrs last time i went but at least i got to talk to a actual person who fixed my case

One more thing - if by some chance they refuse to help you tomorrow, ask for a "Notice of Action" with the denial in writing. You have the right to appeal any decision through a "fair hearing" process. But I'm hoping they'll just reinstate your benefits on the spot given that your income is zero now!

That's amazing news! I'm still trying to get through. Did they just fix it while you were on the phone? How long did it take for your account to update after they fixed it?

My worker did it while I was on the phone! She had me wait about 5 mins while she processed it. She said the system updates overnight so I'll see the change tomorrow. The key was calling right when they opened at 8am!

this reminds me of when my CalWORKs worker said my bank statements weren't good enough proof of my savings account because they were printed at home even though they had my name and account number and everything!!! i had to go to the bank and get them stamped!!! so annoying how they make everything so complicated!!! good luck with your SAR7!!

I'm a benefits advocate, and here's what you should know: If your SAR7 deadline is approaching and you're having trouble getting verification, you can request a "reasonable accommodation" due to timing issues. Call your worker ASAP and explain the situation - that you're actively trying to get the correct documentation from EDD. Also, if you submit your SAR7 with whatever verification you have by the deadline (even if incomplete), and then submit the correct documentation within 30 days, they should restore any benefits that were temporarily discontinued. Make sure to document all your attempts to get the verification (dates you called EDD, etc.). Most importantly, don't miss the deadline - submit something, even if imperfect, and include a written explanation of your efforts to get the proper documentation.