I'm so glad you got your card frozen and are taking all the right steps! That $3.50 test transaction is definitely solid evidence that your card was compromised. When you file the police report tomorrow, make sure to mention both transactions and emphasize that you've never been to that Shell station - the location data will help prove it wasn't you. One more tip: when you get your replacement card, consider setting up account alerts so you get notified immediately of any transactions. Many people don't realize this is an option, but it can help you catch fraud within minutes instead of days. You've got this! The fact that you acted so quickly and have clear evidence of the test transaction puts you in a really good position for getting your benefits replaced. Keep us posted on how it goes with the police report and your county worker!

I'm so sorry you're going through this - benefit theft is absolutely terrifying and unfortunately way too common right now. The advice everyone's given you is spot on, especially about acting fast with the police report and EBT customer service. One thing I'd add: when you talk to your county worker, ask specifically about "expedited replacement" if you can show immediate hardship (like your rent being due). Some counties can process emergency replacements faster than the standard 30-45 days, especially if you have documentation showing you need the money for housing or essential needs. Also, that test transaction at the Shell station is actually really strong evidence in your favor - make sure to emphasize to both the police and your worker that you've never been to that location. GPS data from transactions can be crucial proof that it wasn't you. You're doing everything right by reporting immediately. Don't let anyone make you feel like you're to blame for this - these thieves are getting more sophisticated and targeting benefit recipients specifically. Stay strong and keep advocating for yourself!

UPDATE: Finally got through to my worker! I used that Claimyr service someone mentioned and it actually worked - got through in about 30 minutes instead of being on hold forever. My worker is expediting my claim because I have my rent due notice. She said there's been a huge increase in EBT theft in Fresno lately. She's also referring me to the Housing Support Program for emergency assistance while my claim is processed. THANK YOU everyone for the advice! I'm still stressed but at least I know what to do now. Will update when I hear about my claim.

So glad you got through to your worker and are making progress! This is exactly why we need to share information in this community - your experience will help others who face the same situation. One more tip while you're waiting: document EVERYTHING with photos and timestamps. Take pictures of your rent due notice, screenshot all your communications with your worker, and keep a log of every phone call you make. If there are any delays or issues with your claim, this documentation will be crucial. Also, once you get your benefits restored, consider asking your worker about setting up direct deposit for future payments if it's available in your county. Some people have found it's safer than using the EBT card for cash benefits, though I know not all counties offer it yet. Hoping you get your money back quickly! Keep us posted on how the Housing Support Program works out too.

Just wanted to add that when your parents submit their application, they should ask for expedited processing if possible. Since you mentioned you're visiting food pantries and struggling financially, they might qualify for emergency assistance which can speed up the approval process. Also, if your son is already enrolled in any programs like WIC or receives free school meals, bring those documents too - it helps establish his needs and your family's financial situation. The eligibility worker should also inform your parents about other resources like food stamps (CalFresh) that your son might qualify for as part of their household. Every little bit helps when you're trying to make ends meet!

I'm new to this community but wanted to share that I went through a very similar situation last year with my grandmother caring for my daughter. The Non-Needy Caretaker Relative case was a lifesaver for us! A few things that helped our application go smoother: 1) We had my daughter's pediatrician write a letter confirming she receives regular care at my grandmother's address, 2) The preschool provided documentation showing my grandmother as the primary emergency contact and daily pickup person, and 3) We kept a simple log for a month showing which nights she stayed where (even though it was consistent, having it written down helped). The whole process took about 6-8 weeks, but the $587/month we now receive for my daughter has made such a huge difference. Also definitely apply for CalFresh at the same time - my daughter qualified for about $200/month in food benefits as part of my grandmother's household. Don't give up if they ask for additional documentation - it's normal and they're just making sure everything is legitimate. Wishing you and your family the best!

Btw has anyone notice that the CalWORKs worker never seem to know the answers wen u ask them stuff?? Last time I recertified the lady told me I had to bring my kids school records but then when I got there another worker said that wasn't necessary at all and I wasted time getting all that paperwork for nothing 🙄

Hey Camila! I'm new to this community but I'm also in Sacramento County and went through my first annual recertification a few months ago. I was SO nervous too but it ended up being way less scary than I thought! Everyone here has given great advice already. One thing that really helped me was making a checklist of all the documents I needed and gathering everything early. I put everything in a folder organized by category (income, housing, utilities, etc.) so when I had my phone interview I could easily find whatever they asked for. Also wanted to add - if you're still working at Walmart, they should be able to print you a verification of employment letter if the county asks for one. I had to get one from my job and HR was super helpful about it. You got this! The fact that you're asking questions and preparing ahead of time shows you're going to do great. And it sounds like you have plenty of time since your cert doesn't end until April. 😊

I'm new to this community and this whole thread has been incredibly helpful to read through! Anna, I'm so glad you got everything sorted out with your worker and that you'll still qualify for some assistance. Your experience really highlights how important it is to be honest upfront rather than letting fear drive decisions. As someone who might need to apply for CalWORKs myself soon due to job uncertainty, this conversation has taught me so much about how the system actually works. I had no idea about the earned income disregards or how they handle variable income. It's also reassuring to know that the workers are generally understanding when people are trying to do the right thing. Thank you to everyone who shared their knowledge here - especially those who explained the technical details about reporting requirements and income calculations. This kind of community support makes navigating government assistance programs so much less intimidating for newcomers like me!

As a newcomer to this community, I've been following this thread and I'm really impressed by how supportive and knowledgeable everyone has been! Anna, congratulations on getting through to your worker and resolving the situation - your courage to be honest despite your fears is really admirable. This discussion has been incredibly educational for someone like me who is still learning about how these programs work. I had no idea that CalWORKs has earned income disregards specifically designed to help working families, or that they have processes for handling irregular income. It's reassuring to know that the system isn't as black-and-white as I initially thought. The consistent advice from experienced members here - to always be transparent about all income sources - really drives home how much better it is to deal with any complications upfront rather than risk the serious consequences of unreported income later. Thank you all for creating such a helpful and judgment-free space for people navigating these challenging situations!