CalWORKs approval timeline after submitting all verification documents?

mine took 4 weeks after turning in my last verification doc. workers r so backed up rn. dont stress yet, ull get retroactive payment from date of application anyway

The standard processing time for CalWORKs applications is 45 days from the date you first applied. Even if you've submitted all required verification, it can take some time for workers to review everything and make an eligibility determination. That said, in my experience, most applications are processed within 30 days if all documentation is complete. A few things that might help: 1. Check if you qualified for Immediate Need (if you have less than $100 and urgent needs) 2. Make sure your SAR7 form is up to date if this isn't your initial application 3. If your utilities are at risk of disconnection, mention this specifically when you reach out Have you tried visiting the office in person? Sometimes that's more effective than calling.

I submitted my final verification document on Feb 3, 2025, and received approval on Feb 21 - so it took 18 days for me. HOWEVER, this varies WILDLY depending on your county and current workload. Some counties are processing in 7-10 days while others are taking the full 45 days. What worked for me was using this service called Claimyr to actually get through to a real person at the county office. You know how the phone lines are always busy or they put you on hold forever and then disconnect you? This service calls for you, waits on hold, and then connects you when there's a real person on the line. I was skeptical but watched their video demo (https://youtu.be/jzISHxCPLwE) and it actually worked. Got through to my worker who told me exactly what was happening with my case. Saved me so much stress. You should definitely be proactive since the 45-day processing deadline is approaching.

3 weeks isn't bad tbh. Mine took 43 days AFTER they had all my stuff. Then another 2 weeks for my EBT card to arrive. The system is a joke. They expect us to submit everything instantly but then take their sweet time processing. Same with WTW assignments - miss one appointment and they threaten to sanction you, but they can take months to approve childcare assistance!

Waiting for my CalWorks application to process was so stressful. I turned in my final verification (childcare expenses) on December 12 and got approved January 8, so about 4 weeks. BUT! I found out later they weren't actually waiting on anything - my case was just sitting there. When I finally got through to someone, they processed it that same day. Do you know if your case is assigned to a specific worker? Ask for their direct number or extension. Also, if you're really struggling, ask about emergency assistance while waiting for approval. I didn't know about that option until it was too late.

i applied in novemeber and got aproved in december but i only got benefits starting in january? someone told me they are suposed to give you money from when you applied not when they aproved you?? did anyone else get retroactive payments or did I get cheated

I'm in Los Angeles County and it took exactly 45 days from my application date to get approved, which was about 3 weeks after I submitted my final document (child support cooperation form). What helped me was documenting EVERYTHING. Every time I called, I wrote down the date, time, who I spoke with (or if I couldn't get through). Every document I submitted, I got a receipt or took a photo of it at the office. If you reach the 45-day mark and still don't have an answer, you can request a State Hearing. Sometimes just mentioning that you'll need to file for a hearing lights a fire under them. Has anyone gotten approved faster than 45 days recently? I feel like processing times are getting worse everywhere??

UPDATE: I went to the office in person this morning and waited 2.5 hours, but finally got to speak with someone! Turns out my application was approved a week ago but the notice got lost in the mail. My EBT card is being processed and should arrive within 7 days. They're also going to expedite my first payment due to my utility situation. Thanks everyone for your advice and support!