I'm a benefits advocate, and I've been seeing this issue a lot with the CalSAWS transition. Here's what's happening: The new system is flagging income as "changed" even when it's stable because it's comparing to a different baseline than the old system used. It's a programming issue. Everyone affected should: 1. Request an immediate case review for "administrative error" (use those exact words) 2. Ask for "expedited aid restoration" due to imminent harm (potential eviction) 3. Request retroactive benefits from the date of discontinuance 4. File for a State Hearing using the back of any CalWORKs notice you've received or online at https://acms.dss.ca.gov/ If you request the hearing and specifically check the box for "aid pending" before the 10-day deadline, they must restore your benefits while investigating. The deadline is usually 10 days from the discontinuance notice date - but since you didn't receive notice, argue that the clock hasn't even started. Don't give up! This is a clear violation of your due process rights under MPP Section 22-072.

I'm so glad you got through to someone and they're reopening your case! This exact same thing happened to me 3 weeks ago - benefits cut off with no warning, same income for months. The worker told me it was definitely a system glitch where the new CalSAWS was flagging stable income as "changes." Mine took 4 days to get restored once they reopened it, but I did get all the back pay from when it was cut off. Make sure you ask them to put a note in your file about this being a system error so it doesn't happen again next month. And definitely keep all your documentation showing your income never changed - I had to prove it twice before they finally flagged my case as "stable income, do not auto-discontinue." Fingers crossed you get this sorted before your rent is due! The stress is unreal when you're just trying to keep a roof over your kid's head.

Thank you everyone for all the advice! I decided to submit online through BenefitsCal today. I uploaded my two paystubs and also found a section to enter my work information. The system gave me a confirmation number and said my SAR7 was successfully submitted! I also called my county office (it took forever to get through) and they confirmed my job doesn't put me over my IRT so I didn't need to report it within 10 days. But the worker said I did the right thing reporting it now on my SAR7. I'll still keep an eye out for the paper form in the mail just in case. Fingers crossed everything goes smoothly! This is all so stressful when you're trying to work and take care of kids at the same time.

So glad you got it submitted successfully! Just wanted to add one more tip - screenshot or save that confirmation number somewhere safe. I learned this the hard way when my benefits got delayed and the county claimed they never received my SAR7. Having that confirmation number saved me because I could prove I submitted it on time. Also, since this is your first SAR7, you might want to set a calendar reminder for your next one. They're due every 6 months, so yours will be due again in October. The system usually sends notifications about 30 days before the deadline, but it's good to have your own reminder too. Good luck mama, you've got this! 💪

UPDATE: You all are amazing! I called this morning and specifically asked about the One-Time Special Needs Payment and Barrier Removal Funds like you suggested. My worker still seemed confused, but I asked to speak with a WTW specialist. The specialist knew exactly what I was talking about! They're going to cover my insurance down payment through their Barrier Removal Funds because it's directly preventing me from getting to my interview and potential job. I had to fill out some extra paperwork and provide proof of the insurance quote plus my interview confirmation, but it's getting approved! Thank you all so much for your help - I never would have known to ask for these specific programs otherwise.

That's such great news, Anita! 🎉 Thanks for updating us - this is exactly the kind of information that helps everyone in this community. It's so frustrating that knowledge about these resources seems to depend on which worker you get, but at least now we know to specifically ask for a "WTW specialist" if our regular worker doesn't know about Barrier Removal Funds or One-Time Special Needs Payments. Good luck with your interview! Hope you get the job and this whole experience leads to better things for you.

anyone else notice that sacramento county ALWAYS does this right when rent is due??? like they know exactly what theyre doing cutting ppl off at the end of the month smh

Just wanted to add - if you're going in person tomorrow, write down exactly what happened and what you need resolved. When you check in, ask if there are any CalWORKs supervisors available. Sometimes they can resolve issues on the spot, especially when it's clearly an error in their system. Also, if you have any documentation showing your income has been consistent (pay stubs, employer letters, etc.), bring multiple copies so they can keep one for their records. If they restore your benefits but say the payment will take days to process, ask specifically about emergency payment options. Sacramento County can issue same-day payments in true emergency situations, though they don't advertise this option. Keep us updated on how it goes! Many people are dealing with the same issue right now.

this is why i always keep a little extra in my account from the month before if possible. never know when theyll mess up the timing and then your stuck with late fees and stuff. glad it worked out for you tho!

I'm so glad your payment came through! This thread is really helpful for understanding that delays can happen even when everything is fine with your case. I'm new to CalWORKs and was wondering - is there any way to get notifications when payments are processed, or do we just have to keep checking our cards/BenefitsCal account? It would be nice to have some kind of alert system so we don't have to stress about checking all day.