Update: I finally found it! It wasn't showing up because my reporting period hadn't started yet, just like many of you said. I called my county office (took forever to get through) and they confirmed it would appear on the 1st. Sure enough, logged in this morning and there it was under Documents > Submit Reports. Thanks everyone for your help!

So glad you found it! This is such a common problem and it's frustrating that they don't make it clearer about the timing. For future reference, you can also set up email notifications in your BenefitsCal account settings to get reminders when forms become available. I learned this the hard way after missing a deadline once. Also, if you ever have trouble getting through by phone again, try calling right when they open at 8am - the wait times are usually shorter then.

Just to clarify something important - once approved, your benefits will be backdated to the date of application. So even if it takes the full 30 days, you'll receive benefits for that entire period. For example, if you applied on May 1 and get approved on May 30, you'll receive benefits for all of May in your first payment.

Hey! I just went through this exact same situation last month. My worker was assigned on a Tuesday and I got my benefits the following Monday - so about 6 days. BUT I think it really depends on how complete your paperwork is and honestly your worker's caseload. I'd recommend calling first thing in the morning (like 8 AM sharp) to check in with your worker about your status. Also, make sure to mention your rent situation - they can sometimes push urgent cases through faster. Don't stress too much though, most people I know got theirs within 7-10 days of worker assignment. You got this!

Whatever you do, DO NOT miss the deadline on your recertification paperwork while trying to resolve this issue. If your recert is due, submit it through BenefitsCal anyway, even if you can't talk to a worker. You can upload any supporting documents they need. That way, if they try to discontinue you for missing the appointment, you can prove you still submitted everything required for your recertification on time. The paperwork is separate from the interview requirement.

This is so frustrating but unfortunately super common! I've been dealing with CalWORKs for 3 years and this happens ALL the time. A few things that have helped me: 1) Always call the main county number first thing Monday morning and ask to speak to a CalWORKs supervisor immediately - don't let them transfer you to the regular CalWORKs line. 2) If you have to go in person, try to go right after lunch around 1pm when they're less busy. 3) Send a message through BenefitsCal explaining exactly what happened with timestamps - this creates an official record. 4) Most importantly, mention that you're willing to file a state hearing if your benefits get cut due to THEIR missed appointment. That usually gets their attention fast. Don't give up! You shouldn't have to suffer because they can't do their job properly.

side note but does anyone else think its RIDICULOUS that they expect us to know all these complicated rules?? like what even is an IRT really and why do they make it so confusing with the gross vs net stuff? i swear they make it complicated on purpose so people mess up and they can cut people off

This is such a common confusion! I went through the exact same thing when I first started working. The key thing to remember is that the IRT is ALWAYS compared to your gross income (before taxes and deductions). Even though it feels unfair since that's not what you actually take home, that's how the system works. I'd recommend calling your worker to report the change ASAP since you're over the gross threshold - waiting could definitely lead to overpayment issues. And don't worry too much about losing all your benefits! With the earned income disregards, you'll likely still qualify for some assistance even if your gross income exceeds the IRT. Better to report now and keep things above board than risk owing money back later.

I just wanted to update everyone - I took the job! After talking to my worker (finally got through), she confirmed everything that most of you said. I'll still get some Cash Aid, keep childcare benefits, and actually have more total money each month. Thanks for all the advice!

Congratulations on taking the job! That's such great news. I went through something similar about 6 months ago when I started working part-time. One thing that really helped me was keeping detailed records of all my paystubs and any communication with my worker about how they calculated my benefits. It made the monthly reporting so much easier. Also, if you haven't already, ask your worker about any work-related expense deductions you might be eligible for - things like uniforms, transportation costs, or even childcare expenses above what they cover. Every little bit helps when you're transitioning to work while still on benefits. Hope the new job goes well for you and your daughter! It sounds like you did your research and made a smart decision.