Moving out of California with active CalWORKs - what happens to my EBT card and benefits?

You definitely need to report this to your worker ASAP - moving out of state is considered a mandatory mid-period report for CalWORKs. Your benefits won't transfer automatically to Arizona. Each state has their own TANF program with different rules and benefit amounts than California's CalWORKs. If you don't report the move, it could potentially be considered an overpayment that you'd have to pay back later.

When I moved to Nevada in 2023, I made the HUGE mistake of not telling my worker until after I left. They kept putting money on my EBT card for almost 2 months b4 figuring it out, and then I got hit with a $1450 overpayment notice!!! DONT DO WHAT I DID! You need to submit a written notice (I think it's called the AR 3) saying you're moving out of state. ALSO make sure you apply for benefits in Arizona right away because there might be a waiting period.

Are you going to be able to get ahold of your worker tho?? I've been trying to reach mine for WEEKS about a change and can't get through. Always on hold for hours then disconnected! might be smart to just go to the office in person if possible since ur on a deadline

i moved frm cali to texas last year an what u need 2 do is tell ur worker AND return the ebt card to the county office they told me its technically state property n ur not allowed to take it to another state

Make sure you submit your change report in writing and keep a copy with proof that you submitted it. You can do this through BenefitsCal online or by filling out the AR 3 form (Address and Change Report). This proves you reported the move in case there's any confusion later. Arizona calls their cash aid program "Cash Assistance" and it's part of their TANF program. Their benefit amounts are generally lower than California's, so be prepared for that. You'll need to apply as soon as you get there - benefits don't transfer between states. Also important: make sure you spend down any money on your EBT card before you leave California. Those funds won't disappear immediately when you report your move, but it's better to use them while you're still a CA resident to avoid any complications.

Just went thru this!!! When u move to a diff state u start ALL OVER with there system. It took me almost 6 weeks to get approved for benefits in my new state and they required different paperwork then CA did. Make sure u save some money if u can cuz there might be a gap between ur CA benefits ending and AZ benefits starting. Also AZ might have different rules about WTW (welfare to work) requirements so ask about that right away.

Wait why r u even telling them??? just keep getting the benefits till they catch on. My cousin moved to Oregon and kept using her Cali benefits for like 4 months before anyone noticed. Free money!!

Good luck with your move and helping your sister! Just want to add that when you apply for Arizona's Cash Assistance program, you'll need to do it through their Department of Economic Security (DES). They have online applications, but you might want to call ahead to see what documents you'll need to bring since requirements can be different from California. Also, ask your CA worker if they can provide you with a letter showing when your benefits ended - this might help speed up your Arizona application since it shows you're not getting duplicate benefits. The whole process is stressful but you're doing the right thing by reporting everything properly!