I finally got my direct deposit working after THREE attemts. One thing nobody mentioned - if you change your address with CalWORKs during the direct deposit setup process it automatically cancels your direct deposit request!!!! Makes NO SENSE but that's what happened to me. Also make sure you're still checking the BenefitsCal portal even after you think it's set up because sometimes they send messages there instead of actually calling you if there's a problem with your form.

Just wanted to add my experience - I successfully set up direct deposit about 6 months ago and it's been working great! A few tips that helped me: 1. When filling out form CW 2208, use black ink and write very clearly - I've heard messy handwriting is a common reason for rejection 2. Double-check your routing and account numbers against your bank's website, not just your checks (sometimes printed checks have errors) 3. If you submit through BenefitsCal, take screenshots of the upload confirmation page in case you need proof later 4. Keep using your EBT card for a few cycles after submitting - don't assume it worked until you see the money in your bank account The whole process took about 3 weeks for me from submission to first direct deposit. Way better than dealing with the EBT card for cash! Good luck getting yours set up.

I'm really glad you got through to your worker and are switching to direct deposit! I've been following this thread because I'm in a similar situation. Just wanted to share that I made the switch about 6 months ago after my neighbor got skimmed twice. The peace of mind is worth it - no more worrying every time I use my EBT card for cash. My bank also sends me instant notifications when any money gets deposited, so I know right away when my benefits come through. The only downside is it does take a couple days to process, but honestly that's a small price to pay for the security. Hope everything goes smoothly with your direct deposit setup!

I'm so glad this thread exists! I've been putting off dealing with this EBT skimming issue but reading everyone's experiences has convinced me I need to act fast. My sister got her benefits stolen last month and she's still fighting to get the money back - it's been a nightmare for her family. I had no idea direct deposit was even an option for CalWORKs cash aid! My case worker never mentioned it when I asked about keeping my benefits safe. Does anyone know if there are any fees from the county for switching to direct deposit? And do all banks accept these direct deposits or are there restrictions? I bank with a credit union so I want to make sure before I start the paperwork. Thanks everyone for sharing your stories - it's scary but helpful to know what to expect!

I'm so sorry this happened to you! This exact same thing happened to me about 6 months ago - $540 stolen from an ATM I'd never used while my card was in my wallet. It's terrifying and so frustrating! Here's what worked for me: I went to the county office the very next morning with my police report number (you don't need the full report, just the case number). I asked to speak to a supervisor immediately and explained it was an emergency with minor children involved. They were able to give me a partial emergency payment that same day while they started the investigation. The whole process took about 6 weeks to get fully resolved, but having that emergency assistance really helped with groceries and bills. Make sure you emphasize that you have kids and need immediate help - they have different rules when children are involved. Also, get a new card with a completely new number right away. They can do this at the office while you're there filing the theft report. Don't just change your PIN on the same card - get a brand new card number entirely. Stay strong - they will replace your stolen benefits, it just takes time. But don't let them brush you off about emergency assistance while you wait!

I'm so sorry this happened to you - EBT theft is unfortunately becoming way too common and it's absolutely terrifying when you have kids depending on that money. I went through something similar last year and want to share what I learned: First, you're doing the right thing filing the police report. When you go to the county office tomorrow, bring that police report number and ask specifically for the CW 2215 form that others mentioned. Don't leave without filing this form - it's crucial for getting your benefits replaced. Here's something that really helped me: when I explained to the supervisor that I had children at home and no other resources for food/rent, they were able to provide what's called an "Immediate Need" payment while the investigation was pending. It wasn't the full amount stolen, but it was enough to cover groceries and part of my rent. They have special provisions when minor children are involved. Also, definitely get a completely new EBT card with a new number - not just a PIN change. The skimmers can copy your entire card number, so changing the PIN won't help if they have all your card info. One last tip: if you have trouble getting through to your worker or getting help at the office, document everything. Write down names, dates, what you were told. If you don't get emergency assistance, ask them to put in writing why you were denied - sometimes this motivates them to actually help. You will get through this! The stolen benefits can be replaced, it just takes patience and persistence.

Hey! I just went through this exact situation 6 months ago when my restaurant job went from full-time to on-call. You absolutely can and should apply for both programs right now! Don't wait for your first reduced paycheck - I made that mistake and it delayed everything by weeks. A few things that really helped me: 1. Get everything in writing from your employer about the schedule change - even a text or email helps 2. When you apply online through BenefitsCal, be super clear in the comments section that your income is about to drop significantly 3. Ask specifically about expedited CalFresh during your phone interview - with 2 kids you'll probably qualify and get food benefits within days One thing nobody mentioned - if you're having trouble reaching your worker later on, you can also walk into your county office. I know it's a pain but sometimes it's the only way to get someone to actually look at your case. Good luck mama, you got this! 💪

I'm going through something similar right now! My hours got cut from 35/week to maybe 15-20 and it's been really stressful. One thing I learned is that you should definitely apply online through BenefitsCal.org first, but also try to schedule an in-person appointment at your county office if possible. The workers there can sometimes explain things better than trying to figure it out over the phone. Also, since you mentioned you're a single mom with 2 kids, make sure you ask about the Maximum Aid Payment (MAP) for your family size when you apply for CalWORKs. With variable income from on-call work, some months you might get more assistance and some months less, but they calculate it based on your household size and county. One more tip - start keeping a simple notebook or phone notes of every hour you work and every dollar you earn. It makes reporting so much easier later on. The county workers really appreciate when you come prepared with organized records!

I'm dealing with a similar situation right now! I do freelance pet sitting and dog walking, all cash payments. What really helped me was creating a simple spreadsheet with dates, services provided, and amounts earned - even going back a few months if you can remember. I also took photos of any text conversations with clients that mentioned payment amounts. My worker said having that kind of organized record showed I was taking it seriously and wasn't just making numbers up. It's frustrating that the system makes it so hard for people with non-traditional work, but hang in there!

I'm so glad to see this thread - I'm going through the exact same thing right now! I do house cleaning and babysitting, all cash payments. Reading everyone's experiences has been really helpful. I just wanted to add that when I spoke to my worker yesterday, she mentioned that if you have any regular clients who are comfortable doing so, even a simple handwritten note from them stating "I pay [your name] $X per week/month for house cleaning services" can be really helpful as supporting documentation along with the self-employment affidavit. She said it doesn't have to be fancy or notarized, just a basic statement. Also, if you have any photos of your cleaning supplies or equipment on your phone, bring those too - it shows you're legitimately running a cleaning business. The whole process is definitely stressful but it sounds like most workers are willing to work with you if you show good faith effort to document everything you can.