I went through a PFI about a year ago and completely understand your anxiety - that letter is so scary when you're doing everything right! What really helped me was thinking of it as just another appointment where I needed to show my paperwork, like renewing my license or something routine. One thing I'd add that I don't think anyone mentioned yet - they might ask about any changes you're planning to make soon, like if you're thinking about moving or if your kids will be starting school/daycare. They're not trying to catch you in anything, they just want to know about upcoming changes that might affect your case. I mentioned that my daughter would be starting kindergarten in a few months and they actually helped me understand how that would impact my childcare assistance. Also, don't feel like you have to rush your answers. I was so nervous that I started talking really fast, but the worker told me to take my time and think through each question. They want accurate information, not quick responses. Reading through all these positive experiences is so heartwarming - it shows that when you're honest and following the rules like you clearly are, these interviews are truly just routine paperwork checks. You've been responsible with your reporting and you're preparing well, so you're going to do great! I'll be thinking of you and hoping everything goes smoothly.

I had my PFI about 10 months ago and was in almost the exact same situation as you - single mom, been on CalWORKs for about 8 months at the time, and absolutely terrified when I got that letter! Reading through all these responses brought back memories of how scared I was, but also reminded me how much better it went than I expected. One thing I'd add that really helped me - I called my local legal aid office beforehand just to ask if there was anything I should know. They told me these interviews are so routine that they rarely get calls about problems afterward, which was really reassuring. They also mentioned that if for some reason issues do come up during the interview, I have rights and can request to speak with a supervisor or get help. During my interview, the worker asked pretty standard questions about household composition, income, and expenses. But what surprised me was that she also asked about my goals - like if I was planning to go back to school or look for work. It felt more supportive than investigative. She even gave me information about job training programs in our area. The whole thing lasted about 35 minutes and my benefits continued exactly as they were. Looking back, I wish I hadn't spent so many sleepless nights worrying about it! You're clearly being responsible and you're preparing well - that's exactly what they want to see. Just remember that you deserve these benefits and you're using them exactly as intended. You've got this, mama!

The worker I spoke to said there might have been a data entry error when my caseworker entered my income. Apparently, they entered one of my paystubs twice! She said she's correcting it and I should get an updated notice in the mail within 10 days. So relieved!

That's great news that you got it resolved! Data entry errors are unfortunately pretty common with CalWORKs cases. I'm glad that Claimyr service worked for you - I've been hesitant to try it but your experience makes me feel better about using it if I need to. Hopefully your corrected benefit amount will be backdated to when the error started so you don't lose out on any money you were entitled to. Thanks for updating us on what happened - this whole thread will be really helpful for other people dealing with similar income calculation issues!

As someone who's been helping people with CalWORKs paperwork for years, I just want to emphasize a few key points that might save you headaches down the road: 1. For your babysitting income - create a simple log showing dates, amounts, and who paid you. Even if it's handwritten, sign and date it. The county accepts self-declarations for cash income. 2. Since your rent increased, definitely include that receipt. Handwritten receipts from landlords are totally valid - don't worry about that. 3. Double-check that you're reporting income for the correct month (March 2025 in your case). This trips up a lot of people. 4. Before you submit, go through the form one more time and make sure every single question has an answer - even if it's just checking "no" or "none." Blank spaces are the #1 reason forms get rejected. 5. If you submit online, take that screenshot of your confirmation! If you mail it, use certified mail. The "we never got it" excuse is unfortunately common. You're being really proactive by asking these questions upfront. That puts you ahead of most people doing their first SAR7. You've got this!

Hey Micah! Welcome to the community and don't stress too much - we've all been where you are with that first SAR7. I just wanted to add a couple things that helped me when I was starting out: Since you mentioned your worker talked really fast during orientation, you might want to request a copy of your case plan or ask for written instructions next time you meet. You have the right to get information in writing, and it really helps when you're trying to remember everything later. Also, for your babysitting income documentation, keep it simple but consistent. I used to write something like: "Self-employment income from childcare services: Week of [date] - $X from [family name or 'Family A' for privacy], Week of [date] - $X from [family name]" etc. Then sign and date it at the bottom. One last thing - if you ever feel rushed or confused during meetings with your worker, it's totally okay to ask them to slow down or repeat something. They work with this stuff every day but for us it's all new! You're doing great by asking questions here first.

Let me tell you about another SCAM they pull - they'll send you notices about mandatory appointments with like 2 days notice when they KNOW you won't get the letter in time, then cut you off for "failure to comply" when you miss it! ALWAYS check your BenefitsCal account every few days even if you're not expecting anything. I got a notice in the mail AFTER the appointment date had already passed! Then had to spend 3 weeks getting my benefits turned back on. They prey on new moms especially because they know we're exhausted and overwhelmed.

Congratulations on your approval! 🎉 As someone who's been through this system, here are some additional tips to protect your benefits: 1. **Get everything in writing** - If a worker tells you something over the phone, follow up with an email or letter summarizing what was discussed. This creates a paper trail. 2. **Know your rights** - You have the right to request a fair hearing if your benefits are discontinued or reduced. Don't let them intimidate you into thinking their decision is final. 3. **Build a support network** - Connect with other CalWORKs recipients in your area. Sometimes local community organizations offer CalWORKs navigation help. 4. **Keep a CalWORKs journal** - Write down dates of all interactions, names of workers you speak with, and what was discussed. This has saved me multiple times when they claimed something different happened. 5. **Plan ahead for your redetermination** - Start gathering documents at least 2 months before your annual review is due. Don't wait until the last minute. The system can be overwhelming, especially with a new baby, but you've already proven you can navigate it by getting approved after 6 tries. You're stronger than you know! Take it one day at a time and don't be afraid to advocate for yourself and your baby. 💪

As a newcomer to this community, I'm really grateful to have found this thread! I'm in a similar situation with my own family - my brother-in-law has had his green card for about 18 months and they've been hesitant to apply for any benefits even though they're really struggling financially with their newborn. Reading through all these responses has been so educational. It's reassuring to see multiple people confirm that CalWORKs won't affect someone who already has their green card, especially with the current rules. The distinction between applying for a green card versus already having one seems really important. I'm curious though - for those who have gone through the process, did the caseworkers seem knowledgeable about immigration concerns? My brother-in-law is worried about having to explain his situation over and over or encountering someone who might give incorrect information about how benefits could affect his status. Did anyone have to deal with caseworkers who weren't familiar with these rules? Thank you all for sharing your experiences - it's making a huge difference for families like ours who are trying to navigate this!

As a newcomer to this community, I just want to echo what everyone else has said - this thread has been incredibly informative! I'm actually a naturalized citizen myself, and I remember how scary these immigration-related decisions felt even after I had my green card. One thing I learned during my own journey is that it's always helpful to keep copies of any official communications or documentation related to benefits applications. If your sister and brother-in-law do apply (which it sounds like they should based on all the great advice here!), I'd recommend they keep a folder with copies of their application, approval letters, and any correspondence with CalWORKs. This isn't because they'll need it for immigration purposes (since as everyone has confirmed, CalWORKs won't affect his status), but more for their own peace of mind. Having that paper trail can be reassuring if any questions ever come up down the road. The support and knowledge in this community is amazing - your sister's family is lucky to have you advocating for them and finding these resources!