Don't stress too much about it! I've been through several of these interviews and they're really just checking that your situation hasn't changed dramatically since your last report. The workers are usually pretty understanding if you're honest about your circumstances. One thing I wish someone had told me before my first recert interview - if you're nervous or don't understand a question, it's totally okay to ask them to repeat it or explain what they're looking for. They'd rather you ask for clarification than give an unclear answer. Also, if you realize you forgot to mention something small during the interview, you can always call back within a day or two to add that information. I once forgot to mention that my mom occasionally helps with groceries, and when I called the next day to clarify, my worker appreciated that I followed up. The fact that you're preparing ahead of time and asking these questions shows you're being responsible about the process. You'll do fine!

I just had my recertification interview two weeks ago and wanted to share some encouragement! The "recertification/termination" language on the notice is just standard wording - it doesn't mean they're planning to terminate you, it's just the official name for the process where they either recertify you for another period or end the current certification period. My interview was actually pretty straightforward. The worker went through each section of my SAR7 and asked if anything had changed since I submitted it. They asked about my work hours, if anyone moved in or out of my household, any changes in childcare costs, and whether I was still living at the same address. One thing that really helped me was having all my documents organized in a folder next to me during the call, even though I didn't need to read from most of them. It made me feel more confident knowing I had everything if they asked for specific details. The whole interview took about 15 minutes for me. The worker was actually pretty friendly and patient when I had to look up a specific date. Just be honest about your situation and you'll be fine! Good luck with your interview on Tuesday!

Just wanted to share another tip that helped me when I was new to CalWORKs - if you're having trouble remembering all the important dates and deadlines, create a simple note in your phone with your key info: your deposit date (7th for you!), your SAR7 due date, your county office phone number, and your case number. That way you always have it handy when you need to call or check something. Also, the BenefitsCal website has a message center where you can sometimes get answers without having to call - it's under the "Contact Us" section. Hope this helps and congrats on getting approved!

One thing that really helped me when I first started getting CalWORKs was setting up a simple budget tracker on my phone. Since you know your deposit will hit on the 7th each month, you can plan backwards from there - like if rent is due on the 1st, you'll have about a week cushion each month which is actually pretty good! Also, don't be afraid to ask your worker to slow down during appointments - you have the right to understand what they're telling you. I used to bring a notebook and pen to write things down because I'd get nervous and forget everything too. The whole system can feel overwhelming at first but once you get into the rhythm of it, it becomes much more manageable. Good luck with everything!

One thing nobody mentioned yet - if you've been on CalWORKs for a while, be careful about your 48-month time limit. You might want to consider asking for an exemption during really tough times (like now) so you don't use up your months when you really need them. There are exemptions for various reasons including lack of childcare, domestic violence, caring for an ill family member, etc. Those exempt months won't count against your lifetime limit.

This whole situation is so frustrating! I'm in the same boat - that extra payment was helping me cover my daughter's after-school program so I could work more hours. Now I had to pull her out and I'm back to part-time only. Has anyone had luck with the county's emergency rental assistance? I heard they have some funds left but the application process is confusing. Also wondering if anyone knows about getting help with car repairs - mine needs new brakes but I can't afford it and need it to get to my WTW activities. Hang in there everyone, we'll figure this out together. It shouldn't be this hard just to keep a roof over our kids' heads.

This is SO helpful! I was definitely confused about where to report everything. I'll make sure to organize all my paperwork before I submit anything. Thank you for taking the time to explain all this!

Hey Zoe! I went through something similar about 6 months ago. My advice is to definitely report it, but don't panic - you're not in major trouble since you used all the insurance money for the replacement vehicle. I'd recommend going to your local CalWORKs office in person if you can't reach your worker by phone. Bring copies of: 1) the insurance settlement letter/check, 2) the vehicle purchase agreement, and 3) your loan documents. Ask to speak with a supervisor if your regular worker isn't available. They can help you fill out the Mid-Period Report correctly. The key thing is showing that the insurance payout was immediately used to replace your transportation, not kept as extra income. Most workers understand that people need reliable cars and won't penalize you for a straightforward replacement situation, especially when you're being proactive about reporting it. Good luck!

I moved from California to Utah last year while on CalWORKs and learned this the hard way - definitely report your move BEFORE you leave! I waited until after I got to Utah and it caused so many problems. My CA benefits got terminated immediately once I reported, but Utah's application process took almost a month. The gap was really tough financially. One thing that helped me was calling Arizona's DES office before I would have moved to ask about their application process and what documents to bring. They told me I could actually start the application process online before arriving, which saved some time. Also make sure to get copies of all your CA paperwork (verification of income, rent receipts, etc.) because Arizona will want to see recent documentation even though you're starting fresh with their system. The benefit amounts are definitely different too - Arizona's cash assistance is lower than CalWORKs, so budget accordingly. But you're absolutely doing the right thing by asking these questions and planning to report everything properly. Your sister is lucky to have you looking out for her!

Just want to echo what others have said about reporting this ASAP - I work at a county eligibility office (not as a worker but in admin) and I see these situations all the time. The key thing is getting that written notice submitted before you move, even if it's just a few days before. You can submit the AR 3 form through BenefitsCal online which gives you a confirmation receipt, or you can email it to your worker if they accept email submissions. One thing I haven't seen mentioned yet - make sure you ask your CA worker about any outstanding requirements you might have, like work participation hours or appointments. Sometimes when people move out of state with incomplete requirements, it can affect their ability to get benefits in the new state if there's a "sanction" that follows them. Arizona will likely ask if you've ever been sanctioned or had benefits terminated in another state. Also, keep all your documentation from the move organized - lease agreements, proof of when you reported the change, etc. If there are any questions later about overpayments or timing, having that paper trail will protect you. Good luck with everything and I hope your sister's health improves!