I just went through this same thing last week! That notification is so misleading - I immediately thought they were cutting my benefits too. But like everyone else said, it's just their way of saying they processed your SAR7. What I've noticed is that the timing of when you see this notification can vary. Sometimes it shows up the day after you submit, sometimes it takes 2-3 days. But as long as you didn't report any income or household changes, your benefits should stay the same. Pro tip: if you're ever really worried about it, you can also log into your BenefitsCal account online to double-check your case status there. Sometimes it shows more detailed info than the EBT app does. The important thing is you got your receipt when you turned in the SAR7 - that's your proof it was submitted on time if any issues come up later!

I'm new to CalWORKs and just submitted my first SAR7 yesterday. Seeing this thread is such a relief! I was planning to spend all day tomorrow calling the county office because I got that same "Account Changed - Status Changed" message and had no idea what it meant. The wording really is terrible - it makes it sound like something bad happened when it's actually good news that they processed your paperwork. Thank you everyone for explaining this! I'm definitely going to start following the tips about screenshotting my benefit amounts and submitting early to avoid the stress.

I just wanted to add something that helped me when I was in a similar situation - consider asking about the CalFresh Employment and Training (E&T) program when you report his new job. If your boyfriend qualifies, it can provide additional support like transportation assistance, work equipment, and even childcare help while he's getting established in his new position. Also, since you mentioned rent going up, make sure to ask about utility assistance programs when you call. Even if your CalWORKs gets reduced, you might still qualify for LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) or other utility help that could offset some of the housing cost increases. One more thing - document the date you report the income change and who you spoke with. If there are any issues later with timing or what was reported, having that information can really help resolve things quickly. You're handling this really well by getting informed first. The transition from benefits to work is always stressful, but it sounds like your family is taking positive steps forward. With all the programs and disregards people have mentioned, you might be surprised how much support is still available even with his new income!

I'm new to this community but wanted to share something that really helped when I went through a similar situation. Along with all the great advice everyone's given about reporting income and the various programs available, I'd suggest asking about the "bridging" period when you call. When I reported my partner's new job, our caseworker explained that there's often a gap between when income starts and when benefits get recalculated - sometimes a month or more depending on when you report and when their next processing cycle runs. During that time, you might continue receiving your current benefit amount even though you've reported the change. This isn't something to worry about - it's just how the system works, and they'll adjust everything properly once they process the information. Also, one thing that surprised me was learning about the "retrospective budgeting" vs "prospective budgeting" differences between CalWORKs and CalFresh. They don't always calculate changes the same way or on the same timeline, so you might see your food stamps adjust differently than your cash aid. Your family is making such a positive step forward, and it's clear you care deeply about doing everything right. The fact that you're getting all this information beforehand puts you in such a better position than people who just hope for the best. Wishing you all the luck with this transition!

Update: I finally got through on the phone today after using that Claimyr service someone mentioned. My worker confirmed the system is down until Monday morning. She said I can email my documents directly to her as an alternative (didn't even know that was possible!). For anyone else panicking about deadlines, definitely try to reach your worker directly instead of relying on the app right now.

I've been dealing with the same issue all week! What's really frustrating is that they don't send any notifications about these maintenance windows. I found out from a neighbor that if you have a smartphone, you can sometimes access the mobile version of the BenefitsCal website directly through your browser instead of the app - it might work even when the app is down. Also, if anyone needs to submit documents urgently, most county offices have drop boxes outside where you can leave sealed envelopes with your case number clearly marked. Just make sure to keep copies of everything you submit!

This thread has been incredibly helpful for understanding CalWORKs childcare assistance! As a newcomer to the program, I was completely overwhelmed during my intake appointment when they mentioned work requirements but barely explained the childcare support available. What really stands out to me is how many people almost got sanctioned simply because they weren't told about their right to childcare assistance upfront. It seems like the system expects you to already know about programs like Stage 1 childcare and forms CCP1 and CCP2, rather than clearly explaining these options during orientation. For other newcomers reading this: the key takeaways seem to be 1) immediately request childcare assistance using specific terms, 2) don't let them pressure you into work activities without childcare in place, 3) document everything, and 4) remember this is your right, not a favor. I'm planning to call my worker tomorrow armed with all this knowledge. It's unfortunate that we have to become experts in our own benefits just to access basic services, but I'm grateful for this community sharing their experiences so openly. Thank you all for creating such a supportive space for navigating this complex system!

As someone who just went through this exact process 6 months ago, I want to add a few practical tips that really helped me navigate the CalWORKs childcare system: 1. When you call about childcare assistance, ask for the forms to be emailed or mailed to you THAT DAY. Don't wait for them to "get around to it" - I had to call 3 times before they actually sent mine. 2. If you have a relative or friend who could provide childcare, they can often qualify as a provider even without formal licensing. My neighbor watches my daughter and gets paid directly by the county - it was much easier than finding a daycare with openings. 3. Keep copies of EVERYTHING you submit. I had to resubmit my childcare paperwork twice because they claimed they never received it. 4. Once your childcare is approved, they'll give you a certain number of hours per week. Make sure to ask about additional hours for things like job interviews, medical appointments, etc. - these are often covered but you have to specifically request them. The most important thing is to not give up if the first person you talk to isn't helpful. I went through 3 different workers before finding one who actually knew the childcare program details. Your benefits depend on getting this right, so keep pushing until you get the help you need!

Just wanted to add some reassurance - I went through a similar situation last year when I got a random redetermination call after starting a new job. I was terrified they'd cut me off, but the worker was actually pretty understanding when I explained I didn't know about the 10-day reporting rule. They did calculate a small overpayment for the weeks I was working but didn't report it, but they set up a payment plan that was very manageable. The key is really just being upfront and cooperative during the interview. They deal with people who genuinely didn't understand the rules versus people trying to commit fraud all the time, and they can usually tell the difference. You'll get through this!

I just want to echo what others have said about being honest during your interview. I've been through several CalWORKs redeterminations over the years, and the workers really do appreciate when you're upfront about changes. The fact that you're asking these questions and preparing ahead of time shows you're trying to do the right thing. One thing I'd add - if they do find an overpayment, ask about hardship considerations when they set up any repayment plan. They have some flexibility if paying it back would cause financial hardship. Also, make sure you get a copy of whatever determination they make in writing so you understand exactly what changed in your case. You've got this! The interview itself is usually pretty straightforward - they just need to update their records with your current situation.