Moving out of state with CalWORKs & CalFresh - do benefits transfer or need to cancel?

You'll need to close your California benefits and apply in Nevada. Each state runs their own programs with different rules, eligibility requirements, and benefit amounts. Unfortunately there's no way to transfer your case between states. The most important things to do: 1. Report your move to your CalWORKs office ASAP (you're required to report within 5 days) 2. Ask them specifically about your final month of benefits - sometimes they can prorate for part of the month 3. Apply for Nevada benefits as soon as possible - you can actually start this process before you move Nevada's cash assistance program is called TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) and they also have SNAP (food stamps). The application process and benefit amounts will be different.

when i moved 2 arizona last yr i just stoped using my EBT in cali and applyed in AZ. didnt tell cali anything lol. took about 3 weeks 2 get approved in AZ but it was fine

When I moved from CA to Oregon, I had to cancel all my CA benefits and apply in my new state. You DEFINITELY need to tell your CalWORKs office you're moving - if you keep collecting benefits after you've moved, that's fraud and can cause serious problems. I'd recommend calling Nevada's TANF office before you move. Their requirements might be different from California's. For example, some states have stricter WTW (Welfare to Work) requirements or different income limits. Also, benefit amounts vary A LOT between states - Nevada's cash aid is lower than California's in most cases. One thing to consider: if you're only temporarily moving to take care of your mom, that might affect your eligibility in Nevada. Make sure to clarify if your move is permanent or temporary when you apply.

If you're having trouble reaching your worker, try using Claimyr.com - it helped me get through to my county worker when I was trying to report changes to my CalWORKs case. They connect you with a real person at the benefits office without waiting on hold for hours. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/jzISHxCPLwE that shows how it works. Worth trying since you have a deadline to report your move!

EVERY STATE IS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT!! Don't assume ANYTHING about Nevada's programs based on what you get in California. I moved from Cali to Nevada 3 years ago and was SHOCKED at how different everything is. Benefit amounts are lower, wait times for approval can be longer, and their work requirements are stricter!! You need to contact Division of Welfare and Supportive Services in Nevada ASAP and start your application process. Their system was WAY more frustrating than California's IMO. And yes, you MUST cancel California benefits before you move. They'll make you pay everything back if you collect benefits after moving!!!

To be very clear about the process: you need to submit a Mid-Period Report or SAR 3 form to your California worker stating your permanent change of address and that you're moving out of state. Specify your move-out date. This will trigger case closure. If possible, try to time your move near the end of your benefit month so you don't lose partial benefits. Nevada may take 30 days to process your application, so apply online before you physically move if possible. Also, don't forget about other benefits that will need to be transferred/reapplied for: - Medi-Cal (you'll need to apply for Nevada Medicaid) - Any childcare assistance - Any housing assistance Your CalWORKs 48-month time clock stops when you leave California, but time used on TANF in Nevada will count if you ever return to California.

i moved from california to texas last year and let me tell u it was a MESS. i told my worker i was moving and my benefits got cut off right away but then texas took almost 2 months to approve me!!!! we had no food assistance for weeks. make sure u have some savings if possible to cover the gap. and yes the benefit amounts are different, i got way less in texas than california. also remember u have to report within 10 days of moving or they can charge u with fraud. don't forget!!

Thanks everyone for all the helpful advice! I was able to reach my worker (finally!) and she confirmed I need to submit a written statement about my move. She said my case will close the end of the month I move, and I need to apply in Nevada right away. I'm going to start the Nevada application online this weekend, and I found their TANF office phone number to call with questions. Sounds like I should prepare for lower benefits and a possible gap. Not what I wanted to hear but at least I know what to expect now. Does anyone know if Nevada requires an in-person interview for TANF? California did when I first applied.

Just wanted to add about Nevada Medicaid since you asked - they do emergency Medicaid coverage that can start immediately for urgent medical needs, but regular Medicaid can take 30-45 days to process. If your daughter has ongoing medical needs, try to get her records transferred and maybe schedule appointments right after you move to avoid gaps in care. Also, Nevada has different county offices depending on where you're moving (Clark County for Las Vegas area, Washoe for Reno area, etc.) so make sure you're applying to the right county. Each county can have slightly different processing times and requirements within the state system. One more tip - Nevada's online application system can be glitchy sometimes, so if you run into technical issues, don't hesitate to call or go in person. Better to have a backup plan than miss your application deadline!

I went through something similar when I moved from California to Washington state last year. Here's what I learned that might help: 1. **Apply for Nevada benefits BEFORE you physically move if possible** - You can often start the application process online even if you haven't moved yet, just use your Nevada address. This can help reduce the gap in benefits. 2. **Get a written confirmation** from your CA worker about your last benefit payment date. Sometimes they can issue a partial payment if you move mid-month, but you need to ask specifically. 3. **Nevada's DWSS (Division of Welfare and Supportive Services) has different county offices** - Make sure you're applying to the right county where you'll be living. Their website has a county finder tool. 4. **Prepare for sticker shock** - Nevada's TANF maximum for a family of 2 is around $383/month (much lower than CA's $943). Their SNAP benefits follow federal guidelines so those should be more comparable. 5. **Consider applying for emergency assistance** in Nevada if you qualify - they sometimes have programs to help with moving expenses or temporary housing for families with children. The transition is stressful but manageable if you stay on top of the paperwork. Document everything and keep copies of all your communications with both states. Good luck with your move and I hope your mom recovers well! 💙

I moved from California to Nevada about 18 months ago while on CalWORKs and can share some specific insights about the Nevada system since you're getting great general advice here. **Nevada's time limits:** Yes, Nevada DOES count your California CalWORKs time toward their 24-month lifetime limit. So if you've used 8 months in CA, you'd have 16 months remaining in Nevada. This is because of federal data sharing between states for TANF programs. **Application timing:** I'd strongly recommend applying online at dwss.nv.gov ASAP, even before you move. You can list your Nevada address and expected move date. When I applied, it took about 3 weeks to get approved, but they backdated my benefits to my application date. **County differences:** If you're moving to Clark County (Las Vegas area), their main office is pretty busy but they do have satellite locations. Washoe County (Reno area) tends to process faster in my experience. **Emergency assistance:** Nevada does have a "Temporary Emergency Assistance" program that can help with moving costs or temporary housing - it's separate from regular TANF and worth asking about when you apply. **Medical continuity:** For your daughter's appointments, Nevada Medicaid can do emergency coverage while your regular application processes, but you need to specifically request it and show it's urgent. The benefit reduction is tough but the cost of living in Nevada is generally lower than California, which helps offset some of the difference. Feel free to ask if you have specific questions about the Nevada system!

I went through a similar interstate move while on benefits when my dad got sick and I had to relocate to help him. The stress of managing benefits during a family crisis is overwhelming, so I really feel for you! A few additional things that helped me that others haven't mentioned: **Documentation is KEY:** Before you leave California, get written copies of EVERYTHING - your current benefit amounts, approval letters, any medical documentation for your daughter, income verification, etc. Nevada will likely ask for some of this documentation again, and having it ready can speed up your application. **Consider timing your move strategically:** Since you mentioned needing to move on the 7th but your benefit month ends on the 15th, ask your CA worker if there's any flexibility. Sometimes they can issue a partial payment for the days you were still eligible in California. **Nevada work requirements:** Be prepared - Nevada's work requirements kick in pretty quickly and can be stricter than California's. Start thinking about childcare options for your daughter since you'll likely need to participate in their employment program. **Local resources:** Once you get to Nevada, connect with local food banks and community organizations right away. They can help bridge any gaps while your benefits get sorted out and often know about local assistance programs that aren't widely advertised. The transition is hard but doable. Focus on getting your paperwork in order first, then tackle one step at a time. Wishing you and your mom all the best during this difficult time! 💙

Hey @Zainab Mahmoud! I'm so sorry to hear about your mom's stroke - that must be incredibly stressful on top of everything else you're dealing with. I wanted to add something that might help with the caregiver situation you mentioned in your reply to @Zara Ahmed. Nevada does have some exemptions for TANF work requirements, including for people who are caring for an incapacitated family member. You'll need to provide medical documentation proving your mom needs care, but it's definitely worth asking about when you apply. Also, since you're moving to Las Vegas, I'd recommend checking out Three Square Food Bank and Catholic Charities of Southern Nevada once you get there. They have programs specifically for families in transition and can help with food, clothing, and sometimes even help with utility deposits for new housing. One more thing - if you haven't already, try to get a letter from your mom's doctor stating that she needs a caregiver. This documentation could be helpful not just for Nevada's work requirement exemptions, but also if you need to apply for any other assistance programs. The Las Vegas area actually has quite a few resources for families, so once you get settled and your benefits are sorted out, there should be additional support available. Hang in there - you're doing an amazing thing taking care of your mom, and it sounds like you're being really proactive about handling all the logistics! 💙

I just wanted to add one more resource that might be helpful - Nevada 211 (dial 2-1-1 from any phone or visit nevada211.org). They have a comprehensive database of local assistance programs, emergency services, and support resources specifically for Clark County. When I moved to a new state, 211 was invaluable for finding everything from emergency food assistance to utility help programs. Also, since you mentioned your worker never answers the phone - once you get to Nevada, their DWSS offices generally have better phone response times than some California counties (at least that was my experience). But definitely keep trying to reach your CA worker before you move to get that official move notification submitted. You're handling this incredibly difficult situation with such grace and planning ahead so well. Moving states while managing benefits AND dealing with a family medical emergency is no small feat. Your mom is lucky to have you looking out for her! 💙

I just went through a similar situation last year when I had to move from California to Arizona while on CalWORKs to help care for my elderly father. The process is definitely overwhelming, but it sounds like you're getting great advice here! One thing I wanted to add that helped me a lot - when you apply for Nevada TANF online, make sure to upload ALL your documents digitally if possible. I found that states process applications faster when everything is submitted electronically rather than mailing documents later. Also, if you're worried about the income gap, check if Nevada has any expedited processing for families with children under 18. Some states can fast-track applications in certain circumstances. I know everyone's mentioned this, but I can't stress enough how important it is to get that written confirmation from your CA worker about your last payment date. When I moved, there was confusion about whether I'd get a partial payment for my move month, and having it in writing saved me a lot of headaches later. Your daughter is lucky to have a mom who's planning ahead so carefully during such a difficult time. Moving to care for family is one of the hardest things to navigate while on benefits, but you're asking all the right questions. Wishing you and your mom all the best with this transition! 💙

I'm really impressed by how thoroughly everyone has covered the practical aspects of your move! One thing I wanted to add that hasn't been mentioned yet - since you're dealing with such a tight timeline (moving in 2 weeks), you might want to consider reaching out to your local California Assembly or Senate representative's office for constituent services help. I know it sounds formal, but their staff can sometimes help cut through red tape when you're having trouble reaching your caseworker or need urgent assistance with benefit transitions. They have direct lines to county offices and can sometimes get faster responses than calling the regular numbers. Also, for your peace of mind about the financial transition - many Las Vegas area churches and community organizations offer one-time emergency assistance grants for families in crisis situations like yours. These aren't government benefits, so they won't affect your TANF eligibility, but they can help with things like moving truck rentals, deposits, or grocery gap coverage. The Nevada Department of Health and Human Services also has a "Navigator" program where trained volunteers can help you navigate the application process once you arrive. It might be worth asking about when you call DWSS. You're doing an incredible job managing all of this while dealing with your mom's medical situation. The fact that you're planning so far ahead shows what a caring and responsible person you are. Your daughter is lucky to have you! 💙

I just wanted to chime in as someone who works with families navigating benefit transitions - you've gotten incredible advice in this thread! One additional resource I'd suggest is contacting Nevada's "Family Resource Centers" once you arrive. They're located throughout Clark County and offer wraparound services specifically for families receiving TANF, including help with job training, childcare resources, and connecting to community supports. Since you'll be caring for your mom, you might also want to look into Nevada's "Family Caregiver Support Program" through their Division of Public and Behavioral Health. It's separate from TANF but can provide respite care, support groups, and sometimes small stipends for family caregivers - which could be helpful since you're taking on such a big responsibility. Also, I know several people mentioned the benefit amount differences, but don't forget to factor in Nevada's lack of state income tax when comparing your overall financial situation. Every little bit helps when you're starting over in a new state. Your proactive approach to this move is really admirable, especially during such a stressful family situation. It sounds like you have a solid plan now thanks to everyone's input. Wishing you a smooth transition and hoping your mom's recovery goes well! 💙

This thread has been such a wonderful example of community support! @Zainab Mahmoud, I hope your move goes smoothly and that all the resources everyone shared here help make the transition easier for you and your daughter. For anyone else who might be facing a similar interstate move while on CalWORKs, I'd recommend bookmarking this thread - there's so much valuable information here about the process, timelines, and resources available. The advice about starting applications early, getting documentation in writing, and connecting with local support services before you move could really help others avoid some of the stress and gaps in benefits. It's amazing how much knowledge this community has collectively. From practical tips about uploading documents digitally to specific Nevada resources like Family Resource Centers and emergency assistance programs - this thread could honestly serve as a comprehensive guide for anyone making this type of move. Wishing you and your mom all the best during this transition, Zainab. You're doing an incredible thing taking care of her, and it sounds like you're going to be well-prepared for the move thanks to everyone's advice here! 💙

This thread has been absolutely incredible to follow! As someone who moved from California to Oregon while on benefits a few years ago, I can confirm that almost everything shared here is spot-on advice. The interstate benefit transfer process is definitely stressful, but seeing this community come together to share such detailed, practical guidance is really heartwarming. @Zainab Mahmoud - I just wanted to add one small thing that helped me during my transition: consider taking photos of all your important documents with your phone as backup, in addition to getting physical copies. During my move, I had some paperwork get lost in transit, and having phone photos saved me when Nevada needed verification of my previous benefits. Also, the advice about Nevada 211 and starting your application online before moving is golden. I wish I had known about these resources when I was going through my transition! Your dedication to caring for your mom while managing all of this logistics is truly admirable. This thread shows what an amazing support system this community can be. Wishing you the smoothest possible transition and hoping your mom's recovery goes well! 💙

This thread has been such an incredible resource! I'm not facing a move myself, but reading through all this detailed advice about interstate benefit transfers has been really educational. @Zainab Mahmoud, I'm so sorry about your mom's stroke and hope her recovery goes well. The amount of practical information everyone has shared here - from the specific 5-day reporting requirement to Nevada's Family Caregiver Support Program to tips about uploading documents digitally - could literally serve as a step-by-step guide for anyone facing a similar situation. It's amazing how this community came together to help you navigate such a complex and stressful process. The fact that people shared their personal experiences with different state programs, benefit amounts, and even specific Las Vegas resources shows what a caring and knowledgeable group this is. Wishing you and your daughter a smooth transition to Nevada! You're doing an incredible thing taking care of your mom, and it sounds like you're going to be well-prepared thanks to everyone's advice here. 💙