As someone new to this community, I wanted to add my voice to this incredibly helpful discussion. I'm in a nearly identical situation - single mom with a 3-year-old, receiving about $350 monthly in informal support from my son's father, plus he occasionally helps with groceries and clothes. What's been really valuable about reading everyone's experiences here is understanding that the adult portion sanction isn't the "punishment" I thought it was - it's actually a viable option that still allows your children to receive substantial benefits. The breakdown several people have shared showing that even without the adult portion, families often receive $600-800+ in combined benefits (children's cash aid, Medi-Cal, CalFresh, childcare assistance) versus the $300-400 most of us get informally is really eye-opening. I've been hesitant to apply because I was afraid of creating conflict with my son's father, but reading how many people said their exes were actually more understanding than expected has given me courage. Plus, the healthcare coverage alone would be life-changing for us - we've been avoiding doctor visits because I can't afford them. For anyone else in this situation who's new to navigating these systems: document everything you can about your current informal arrangements, be honest with your worker about your specific circumstances, and remember that choosing temporary uncertainty to provide better long-term stability for your children is actually the brave parenting choice. I'm submitting my application this week!

As someone new to this community, I wanted to share my experience since I just went through this exact situation about 3 months ago. I'm a single mom with a 7-year-old, and I was getting around $325 monthly from my ex plus he'd help with school supplies and occasional grocery runs. I was terrified to apply for CalWORKs because I thought it would destroy our co-parenting relationship and leave us worse off financially. After reading through forums like this and talking to other parents, I finally decided to move forward with the application. Here's what actually happened: I was upfront with my worker about the informal support I was receiving. She explained that I could try for good cause (which didn't apply to my situation) or accept the adult portion sanction. I chose the sanction, and my daughter still receives her portion of cash aid ($385/month), plus we now have Medi-Cal, CalFresh ($275/month), and childcare assistance that lets me work full-time. The most surprising part? My ex was actually relieved when the formal child support order came through. He said it gave him clarity about his obligations and removed the awkwardness around money conversations. The order was set at about what he was already giving me anyway. My advice to anyone in this situation: don't let fear of change keep you from accessing benefits your children are entitled to. Document any informal payments you're receiving now, be honest during the application process, and remember that healthcare coverage and food security for your kids is worth navigating some temporary uncertainty. The total value of benefits we're receiving now far exceeds what we had before, and it's given us much more stability. You've got this!

This thread has been absolutely incredible to read! As a fellow single parent who went through job loss and the benefits maze about two years ago, I'm so impressed by how supportive and knowledgeable this community is. Ian, you're going to do great - you're asking all the right questions and being so proactive. One small thing I wanted to add that helped me during the process: if you have a smartphone, take photos of all your documents before your interview (ID, termination letter, lease, etc.) so you have backup copies easily accessible if the worker needs to see something again or if you need to reference information quickly. Also, don't be surprised if your first month feels chaotic with timing - unemployment and CalWORKs don't always sync up perfectly at first, but it evens out. The fact that you're thinking ahead about your daughter's needs and being so thorough shows what an amazing mom you are. This rough patch is temporary, and with all the resources you're learning about, you're setting your family up for stability. Sending you both so much love and positive energy for your interview! 💪❤️

Reading through this entire thread has been so heartwarming! Ian, you've received absolutely incredible advice here from so many knowledgeable and caring community members. As someone who's helped families navigate the CalWORKs system, I just wanted to emphasize how well-prepared you sound for your interview now. You've learned about income calculations, work exemptions, childcare assistance, transportation help, emergency aid, and so many other resources that many people don't discover until much later in the process. One final suggestion - during your interview, don't hesitate to mention that you're part of this supportive online community. Sometimes workers appreciate knowing that applicants have access to peer support and accurate information, as it can help reduce confusion and speed up the process. You've shown such strength and determination throughout this thread, and it's clear your daughter has an amazing advocate in you. Wishing you the very best with your interview - you've got this! Please do keep us updated on how everything goes. This community is truly special and we're all rooting for your success! 🌟

Faith, I just wanted to jump in and say how inspiring it's been to watch this community rally around you with such incredible support and detailed guidance! As someone who's also navigated tough financial times as a single parent, I can really relate to that feeling of not knowing where to turn when everything feels overwhelming. One small thing I'd add that hasn't been mentioned yet - when you go to your CalWORKs interview, bring a simple notebook to jot down important information they tell you, especially dates, deadlines, or next steps. I found that when I was stressed during my interview, I sometimes forgot important details they mentioned, and having notes to refer back to was really helpful. Also, don't hesitate to ask them to repeat or clarify anything you don't understand. The caseworkers are used to explaining these programs and would rather make sure you fully understand your benefits and responsibilities than have confusion later. You've got this! The preparation you've done by asking questions here and gathering all this information is going to serve you so well. Your daughter is lucky to have a mom who advocates so thoughtfully for their family's needs. Best wishes with your application - I have a feeling you're going to do great!

Faith, I've been reading through this entire thread and I'm so moved by how this community has come together to support you! As someone who works as a benefits navigator in Riverside County, I wanted to add just a couple of final points that might be helpful. First, when you submit your CalWORKs application, you can also request what's called a "pended case" status if you're missing any documents initially. This allows them to start processing your application while you gather remaining paperwork, which can speed up your approval time. Second, I wanted to emphasize something that was briefly mentioned - make sure to ask about the Immediate Need payments during your interview. Given that you're behind on rent and at risk of eviction, you might qualify for emergency assistance that can be issued within 3 business days of your interview, separate from your regular monthly benefits. The information everyone has shared here is incredibly accurate and comprehensive. You're so well-prepared now! One thing that really stands out to me is how you've approached this whole situation - researching thoroughly, asking the right questions, and being proactive about getting help. Those qualities are going to serve you well not just with CalWORKs, but in rebuilding your financial stability. Your daughter is going to look back on this time and see a mom who did whatever it took to take care of their family. That's something to be proud of. Wishing you both the very best with your application!

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this frustrating situation! This is actually a really common issue that many of us have experienced. Based on what you described and the "pending verification" status you found in BenefitsCal, it sounds like there's definitely a hold on your cash benefits while they wait for your income verification documents. The good news is that since you already uploaded your pay stubs this morning, you're halfway there! The tricky part is getting through to someone to manually lift the hold - the system usually doesn't do it automatically even after you submit documents. I'd definitely recommend trying the early morning calling strategy (around 8am) that others mentioned, or checking out that Claimyr service if phone calls aren't working. Don't give up - that $20 is yours and they have to restore access once they process your verification! Keep us updated on how it goes.

This is such a frustrating but unfortunately common issue! I'm new to CalWORKs and reading through everyone's experiences here has been really eye-opening. It sounds like you're dealing with exactly what many others have faced - a hold on your cash benefits due to that pending verification you found in BenefitsCal. The fact that your CalFresh still works but cash aid doesn't is pretty much a telltale sign of a verification hold. Since you already uploaded your pay stubs this morning, you're on the right track! The challenge now is getting through to someone to manually lift the hold. Based on all the advice here, I'd definitely try calling your worker first thing tomorrow morning around 8am when lines are less busy. If that doesn't work, that Claimyr service that several people mentioned sounds like it could be worth trying. Don't let this discourage you - it seems like once people actually reach someone, these holds get resolved pretty quickly. Your $20 might not seem like much to them, but I know every dollar counts when you're struggling. Keep pushing until you get it sorted out!

Hi Oliver! I'm a case worker who helps people navigate these programs every day, and I want to reassure you that you're absolutely on the right track. Your EDD income of $385/week will NOT disqualify you from CalFresh or CalWORKs - especially with children in your household. Here's what you need to know: - CalFresh IS the same as food stamps/EBT. CalFresh is California's name for the program, EBT is just the card system. - With your income level and kids, you'll very likely qualify for both CalFresh and CalWORKs cash aid - Apply through BenefitsCal.com - one application covers both programs - Check the "expedited service" box since you have children and limited income. This can get your CalFresh processed in 3 days instead of 30. For a household of 3 with your income, you could receive around $200-400/month in CalFresh benefits plus some CalWORKs cash aid. The exact amounts depend on your rent and other expenses. Don't feel bad about needing help - this is exactly what these programs are designed for. You're working with EDD to find employment while ensuring your kids are fed. That's responsible parenting! Apply as soon as possible and feel free to call your county office if you need help with the application.

Oliver, I just wanted to add one more encouraging note! I'm currently receiving both CalFresh and CalWORKs while also getting EDD benefits, and it's been a huge help during my job search. Your $385/week is very similar to what I was getting when I first applied. One thing that hasn't been mentioned yet - if you're having trouble affording groceries RIGHT NOW while waiting for your application to process, many counties have emergency food programs that can help immediately. Also check out local food banks - some don't require any paperwork at all, you just show up. Our local Salvation Army does a weekly food distribution that really helped bridge the gap while I was waiting for my CalFresh card to arrive. The combination of unemployment + CalFresh + CalWORKs isn't luxury living by any means, but it gives you enough breathing room to focus on finding a good job instead of panicking about basic necessities every day. And once you do find work, transitioning off the programs is pretty straightforward - you just report your new income and they adjust everything accordingly. You're doing the right thing by seeking help when you need it. That's what these programs are for, and there's absolutely no shame in using them to take care of your kids during a tough time. Best of luck with your application!