I'm so sorry this happened to you! This is exactly why I'm nervous about using my benefits online. Just wanted to add that when you're dealing with Walmart, make sure to ask for the "proof of delivery" document - not just them telling you it was delivered. They should be able to provide GPS coordinates, a photo of where it was left, and the signature if someone actually signed. If they can't provide these things, that's evidence that their delivery process failed. Also, keep calling back and getting different customer service reps - sometimes you get someone who's more willing to help. Don't let them brush you off! You paid for those items and deserve to get them or your money back.

I'm going through something similar right now with an Amazon delivery that never showed up! Reading through all these responses is super helpful. I wanted to add that if you have a smartphone, you might want to download an app like "Timestamp Camera" or similar - I started taking photos with timestamps of my front door/mailbox area right after I place orders, just in case this happens again. That way I have proof that nothing was delivered at the time they claim it was. Also, some credit unions and community organizations offer free legal clinics that might be able to help you write more formal complaint letters to Walmart if the regular customer service keeps giving you the runaround. Don't give up - you deserve to get your money back!

I just wanted to add something that might help - if you're dealing with cash income from your job, ask your employer if they can provide you with a written statement too. Sometimes having documentation from both you AND your employer makes the county more likely to accept it without questioning. Also, if you have any text messages or emails from your boss about work/payment, screenshot those as backup evidence. I learned this the hard way when they initially rejected my self-written statement but accepted it when I came back with employer verification. The county workers seem to trust it more when it comes from multiple sources. Good luck getting this sorted out quickly!

I work at a nonprofit that helps families navigate CalWORKs issues, and I see this SAR 7 problem constantly. One thing that hasn't been mentioned yet - if you're really struggling to get everything together in time, you can request what's called a "good cause" extension. You have to show that there were circumstances beyond your control that prevented you from completing the SAR 7 on time (like not receiving proper notice, medical emergency, etc.). It's not guaranteed, but it can give you extra time to gather documents. Also, consider reaching out to your local legal aid office - many have CalWORKs specialists who can help advocate for you if the county gives you any pushback. Don't let them intimidate you - you have rights in this process!

I'm so sorry you're going through this stress with your kids' housing on the line! Based on everyone's advice here, it sounds like you have a solid plan for tomorrow. Just wanted to add one more tip that helped me when I had my benefits stolen last year - take photos of your actual EBT card showing you still have it in your possession. The fraud investigators told me this helped prove I didn't willingly give my card to someone else. Also, if you have any receipts from legitimate purchases you made with the card in the days before the theft, bring those too to show your normal usage pattern. You've got all the right documentation and information now - stay strong and don't let them brush you off tomorrow. Your situation IS urgent and they need to treat it that way. Rooting for you! 🙏

I went through this exact situation last summer and I know how terrifying it is when your rent money disappears overnight! The good news is that California has really strengthened their benefit theft protections, so you absolutely CAN get your money back. A few things that helped speed up my case: - I called the EBT fraud hotline (1-877-328-9677) immediately after filing the police report to create an additional paper trail - When I submitted my EBT 2259 form, I also included a signed affidavit stating I never shared my PIN with anyone - I took photos of the specific ATM where my card was skimmed and included those with my paperwork The most important thing is to emphasize the EMERGENCY nature of your situation when you submit tomorrow. Tell them your exact eviction date and ask if they can flag your case as "expedited due to imminent homelessness." Some counties can process these in as little as 3-5 business days when housing is at immediate risk. Also, while you're there, definitely ask about CalWORKs Homeless Assistance Program (HAP) as backup - it can provide emergency rent assistance even while your theft claim is being processed. Don't let them tell you that you have to wait for one program before applying for another. You've got this! The system isn't perfect but it DOES work when you know the right steps to take. Keep us updated! 💪

I'm so glad you found the help you needed here! Just wanted to add one more tip - when you're filling out the BenefitsCal application, there's a section where it asks which programs you want to apply for. Make sure you ONLY select "CalFresh" and leave "CalWORKs" unchecked. The application might seem long because it covers all programs, but don't let that confuse you - just answer the questions honestly and stick to your CalFresh-only plan. Your kids deserve to eat well, and you shouldn't have to sacrifice your peaceful co-parenting relationship to get that help. Wishing you the best with your application!

Just wanted to chime in as someone who went through this exact same worry! I was terrified to apply for any benefits because I thought it would automatically trigger child support stuff with my ex. But I can confirm what everyone else is saying - CalFresh truly does NOT require child support cooperation. I've been receiving CalFresh for my 4-year-old for about 8 months now and there has been zero contact with child support services. My ex and I have our own arrangement that works for us, and the county has never interfered with that. The key is being very clear during your application and interview that you ONLY want CalFresh. Don't let anyone talk you into CalWORKs if you don't want the child support involvement. Your kids need food, and you deserve that help without drama!

This whole thread is so helpful! I love seeing how everyone jumped in to help with specific advice and form numbers. @CosmicCadet, congrats on both the new job AND successfully navigating the system! For anyone else reading this later who might be in a similar situation, it sounds like the key takeaways are: 1) Call ahead if possible, 2) Use form CW 89 to be specific about which program you're withdrawing from, 3) Get documentation in writing, and 4) Report income changes within 10 days to avoid overpayments. Thanks everyone for sharing your experiences - this community is awesome! 💪

This is such a wonderful success story! @CosmicCadet, congratulations on your new job and for successfully navigating the system! It's so encouraging to see how this community came together with practical advice - from the specific CW 89 form number to the Claimyr service suggestion to warnings about getting things in writing. Your experience really highlights how important it is to be proactive and call ahead when possible. For anyone else reading this who might face a similar situation, this thread is a goldmine of actionable advice. Thanks for taking the time to update us on how it worked out - these kinds of follow-ups are incredibly valuable for future community members who might be dealing with the same challenges! 🌟