I'm in a similar situation - 69 years old on SSI and only getting $112 in CalFresh. What really helped me was keeping a detailed log of ALL my medical expenses for a month, including things I didn't think would count. I was surprised that my heating pad (doctor recommended for arthritis), special diabetic socks, and even the gas money for my monthly blood work appointments all qualified as medical deductions. The key is being very thorough and persistent. I ended up writing everything down before calling so I wouldn't forget anything during the conversation. Also, if they deny any of your medical expenses, ask them to explain in writing WHY it doesn't qualify - sometimes they're wrong about what counts and will correct it when pressed for details. One tip: if you take any over-the-counter medications regularly (like daily vitamins, pain relievers, etc.), ask your doctor to write a simple note saying they recommend them. That can turn non-deductible expenses into deductible medical expenses.

I'm also a senior dealing with this frustrating CalFresh system! At 67 with similar income sources, I totally understand your confusion. One thing that really helped me was learning that as seniors, we can get what's called an "expedited recalculation" if we report new medical expenses. Don't just call - also try submitting a written "Report of Change" form (you can usually find it online for your county or pick one up at the office). Sometimes written requests get processed faster than phone calls that never get answered. Also, make sure they're using the correct "Standard Medical Deduction" for seniors. If your monthly medical expenses are over $35 but under about $190, they should automatically give you a standard deduction without requiring receipts for every little thing. Many caseworkers forget to apply this correctly. And here's something most people don't know - if you're spending your own money on special dietary foods for health conditions (like diabetic foods, low-sodium items, etc.), those can sometimes count as medical expenses too if your doctor recommends that diet. Worth asking about!

This whole thread is incredibly helpful! I'm new to CalWORKs (just started receiving benefits two months ago) and my caseworker never mentioned most of these issues or solutions. The fraud alert triggering from trying multiple ATMs is something I definitely would have done without thinking about it. I'm saving all these tips - the money order option, cashback at stores, calling the EBT line first before trying multiple ATMs, and even the credit union manual withdrawal option. It's frustrating that we have to learn all these workarounds through trial and error or from each other instead of being properly informed upfront. Really grateful for this community sharing real practical advice that actually helps navigate the system!

As someone who's been navigating CalWORKs for about a year now, I can't stress enough how important it is to save the EBT customer service number (1-877-328-9677) in your phone and call them FIRST when you have any card issues. I learned this the hard way after getting my card locked multiple times from trying different ATMs. One thing I didn't see mentioned - if you're ever completely stuck and need emergency cash, some county offices have emergency voucher programs where they can issue you a paper voucher for immediate use at certain stores. It's not widely advertised but it exists for situations where your EBT card is completely non-functional and you need food/essentials right away. You have to go in person and it's a bit of paperwork, but it can be a lifesaver in crisis situations. Also, for anyone new to the system - sign up for text alerts through the EBT website! They'll notify you about system maintenance, balance updates, and sometimes even when your card gets temporarily locked. Wish I had known about that feature from day one.

I'm having the same issue too! Tried 4 different ATMs this morning and none of them would let me withdraw cash even though my balance shows the money is there. This is so frustrating when you have bills due today. I'm going to try the grocery store cash back method that everyone's suggesting - hopefully that works! Thanks for posting this, at least now I know it's not just my card that's broken.

This happened to me last month too! The ATM issues are so common on benefit payment days. I found that smaller stores like corner markets and gas stations sometimes have better luck with EBT cash back than the big chain stores when the system is overloaded. Also, if you have a Chase or Bank of America nearby, their in-branch tellers can usually process EBT withdrawals even when their ATMs are down. Just bring your ID and EBT card. Hope everyone gets their money sorted out today!

One thing to know is that when the Transitional CalFresh ends and you apply for regular CalFresh, they WILL count your income at that point. So your benefit will likely go down if you're working more now. Just prepare for that change after the 5 months. My TCF was $973 for my family of 4, but when I converted to regular CalFresh it dropped to $423 because of my job. Still helpful but definitely a big difference.

Quick tip - when you submit your request to end CalWORKs, make sure it's in writing and specifically mention you want to be evaluated for Transitional CalFresh. Also, keep proof of when and how you submitted it. The CalWORKs discontinuance date is important because your 5-month TCF period starts from that date. And yes, typically they'll send a notice about a month before TCF ends, but as others have said, don't rely solely on that notice - mark your calendar!

Hey Brooklyn! I just went through this same exact thing last month and I totally get how frustrating it is when they don't explain clearly what they need. What worked for me was creating a comprehensive income statement that covered every single source of money for the 30 days before my application. Here's what I included: - All pay stubs from my regular job - A handwritten statement listing ANY cash income (even $20 from babysitting my cousin) - Documentation of any gifts over $30 - Any money from selling items online - Basically every dollar that came into my household For the handwritten part, I just used regular paper and wrote: "I, [my name], received the following additional income in the 30 days prior to my CalWORKs application dated [date]:" Then I listed each amount with the date and source. The key thing is they want to see that you're reporting EVERYTHING honestly. Don't leave out small amounts thinking they don't matter - they do! And definitely ask about emergency CalWORKs since your rent is due soon. That 3-day processing could really help your situation. You've got this! The process is confusing but once you get all the documentation together it should move quickly.

Just wanted to add something that might help - if you're having trouble getting through to your worker by phone, try going to the office in person if you can. I know it's a pain, but sometimes showing up with all your documentation in hand can speed things up. Bring multiple copies of everything too! Also, keep detailed notes of every conversation you have with your worker - date, time, what they told you, what they're asking for. I learned this the hard way when my worker forgot they had already asked me for something and wanted me to resubmit it. For your income statement, make sure you also include any regular monthly expenses that might affect your net income calculation - like if your job deducts for health insurance or if you pay child support. They need the full picture of money coming in AND going out. Hope this helps and that you get approved quickly! The emergency aid option sounds like it could really save you given your rent deadline.