Can I call CalWORKs/CalFresh for an early interview instead of waiting for my scheduled time?

Yes, you can definitely call earlier! I've done this several times with both CalFresh and CalWORKs interviews. Just call the main number and when you get through, explain that you have an interview scheduled for later today but you're available now if any worker can take your call earlier. They usually have multiple workers handling interviews, and if someone has availability, they'll often accommodate you. Just make sure you have your case number or SSN ready so they can look up your file quickly.

they might not do it ive tried b4 n they said I HAD to wait for my time slot. depends on whos working i guess

I work for a community organization that helps clients with CalWORKs and CalFresh applications. What you're asking about is called an "early accommodation interview" and yes, most counties will do this if workers are available. But here's what you need to know: 1. Call as early as possible in the day 2. Explain briefly why you need the earlier time 3. Have your case number, SSN, and all verification documents ready 4. Be prepared that they might still say no if all workers are booked Also, if it's a CalFresh-only application (not combined with CalWORKs), you have more flexibility because those interviews are typically shorter. Good luck!

If u struggle to get thru on the phone try Claimyr.com - it helped me SO MUCH when I needed to reach someone about my CalWORKs and CalFresh. They call the county for you and then connect you when a real person answers. Saved me hours of hold time when I needed to reschedule my interview last month. They have a video showing how it works here: https://youtu.be/jzISHxCPLwE

i tried calling early once but i got some nasty worker who said i was "trying to game the system" by calling early??? like seriously?? im just trying to feed my kids and work around my job schedule but whatever. next time i got a different worker who was super nice and did my interview right then. its all about who answers your call i swear

Just wanted to add that they're actually required by regulation to accommodate reasonable scheduling requests. The CalFresh Manual of Policies and Procedures (MPP) Section 63-300.46 states interviews must be scheduled to accommodate household needs, including work schedules. So if you have a legitimate reason for needing a different time, they should try to accommodate you. If they refuse, ask to speak with a supervisor politely.

one thing i learned is calfresh n calworks are done by different workers sometimes. so if ur only doing calfresh make sure u say that when u call

Update: I just called and got through! They were able to do my interview now instead of at 3:30pm! The worker I spoke with was super nice about it and said they encourage people to call earlier if they can because sometimes their afternoon schedule gets backed up anyway. All approved for CalFresh again! Thanks everyone for the advice!!