Single mom with autism wondering what CalWORKs benefits I qualify for besides EBT

You should definitely apply for CalWORKs cash aid! As a single mom with a disability and a young child, you're exactly who the program is designed to help. CalWORKs provides monthly cash assistance to help with rent, utilities, clothing, and other necessities. Since you already get EBT (CalFresh), you're likely eligible. You should also apply for: 1. CalWORKs childcare assistance - they'll pay for childcare while you work on your Welfare to Work plan 2. Diaper assistance ($30/month for kids under 3) 3. Special Needs allowance due to your autism 4. Housing assistance programs With your autism, you may qualify for an exemption from some of the Welfare to Work requirements or get accommodations. Make sure to mention your disability when applying!

The county workers can be HORRIBLE with disabilities!!! I have severe anxiety and every time I try to explain my situation they act like I'm just being difficult. It took me FOUR VISITS to finally get my CalWORKs approved because nobody would give me proper accommodations. Make sure you specifically ask for a disability accommodation when you go in. They legally have to provide it but won't tell you unless you specifically ask!!!

You should definitely apply for CalWORKs. As a single parent with a disability and a young child, you'll likely qualify for cash aid of around $860-915 per month depending on your county. Here's what you'll need to bring to apply: • ID for yourself • Birth certificate for your daughter • Any documentation of your autism diagnosis • Proof of residence (utility bill, lease) • Proof of any income you receive Since you have autism, you can request reasonable accommodations during the application process. This might include having a support person with you, getting extra time to review documents, or even completing the interview in a quieter space. You'd also qualify for the CalWORKs diaper benefit ($30/month), childcare assistance, and possibly homeless assistance if you're at risk of losing housing. The WTW (Welfare to Work) requirements might be modified or waived due to your disability. Be sure to discuss this with your worker.

i get calworks for me and my kid and the EBT too its ok but they make you do all this welfare to work stuff but with autism you probably can get excused from that part. they give you money every month but its not alot tbh like $900 maybe for 2 people. better than nothing tho!!

Everyone's talking about CalWORKs, but you should also apply for SSI for yourself due to your autism. The process is long but worth it. I have a cousin with autism who gets both CalWORKs for her kid and SSI for herself. The combo makes life a lot more stable. I also wanted to mention - applying through BenefitsCal.com is easier than going into the office especially with sensory issues. BUT the big problem is getting through to anyone by phone if you have questions. I spent THREE WEEKS calling daily trying to reach someone about my case.

Since several people mentioned the online application process - let me clarify that you can apply through BenefitsCal.com, but I highly recommend scheduling an appointment for help with the application if you get overwhelmed. Regarding your question about documentation: Yes, bring any medical records related to your autism diagnosis. This will help with both getting accommodations during the application process AND potentially qualifying you for an exemption from some Welfare to Work requirements. Welfare to Work (WTW) is normally a requirement where CalWORKs recipients have to participate in work-related activities (job search, education, training) for a certain number of hours each week. However, with your autism, you may qualify for what's called a "disability exemption" or modified participation requirements. The $860-915 would be the total amount for both you and your daughter together, not per person.

when i applied for calworks they asked so many invasive questions about my daughters father and child support and stuff, like where he lives and his ssn and all that. just warning you they might do the same which is really annoying

Here's what REALLY bothers me about the system - they expect you to figure everything out yourself but don't make information accessible!!! You shouldn't have to come to Reddit to learn basic things about benefits you're entitled to! The county should have trained workers who UNDERSTAND disabilities and can help you navigate the system properly. Also don't forget to ask about IHSS if your autism affects your ability to perform certain tasks - you might qualify for in-home supportive services too.

To answer your follow-up questions: 1. Documentation from your teen years can work as a starting point, but more recent medical records would strengthen your case. If you have a current doctor or therapist, ask them to write a letter confirming your continued diagnosis and how it impacts your daily functioning. 2. BenefitsCal.com is the statewide integrated portal that replaced the old county-specific websites. It lets you apply for CalWORKs, CalFresh, and Medi-Cal all in one place. 3. Regarding the child's father: If you truly don't know his whereabouts, you can explain this in your child support cooperation interview. You'll still need to complete the forms with whatever information you do have, but they can't deny you benefits just because you genuinely don't have his current information. I also wanted to mention that your prior EBT application might already have some of your information in the system, which could make the CalWORKs application process a bit easier.

Typically, CalWORKs applications should be processed within 30 days. However, if you indicate an immediate need (like being at risk of homelessness or having no income), you may qualify for immediate need assistance, which can be provided within 3 working days of your request! Once approved, benefits are issued on an EBT card (the same one you currently use for CalFresh). Cash benefits are available on the 1st of each month. If you haven't heard anything after 2 weeks, definitely follow up. The system sometimes moves slowly, but persistence helps. Good luck with your application! Many single parents with disabilities successfully navigate these programs, and it sounds like you're taking all the right steps to improve your situation.

Just wanted to add that if you're feeling overwhelmed by the application process, many counties have disability advocates or social workers who can help you complete the paperwork. You can call 211 to find local resources that provide application assistance specifically for people with disabilities. Also, since you mentioned struggling with sensory issues at the county office, you might want to request your interview be scheduled during less busy times (usually mid-morning on weekdays). When you call to schedule, specifically mention that you need accommodations due to your autism - they should offer options like a quieter room or allowing you to bring a support person. One more tip: keep copies of EVERYTHING you submit. The system sometimes "loses" documents, and having your own copies can save you weeks of delays. You've got this! The fact that you're advocating for yourself and your daughter shows real strength.

I want to echo what others have said about requesting accommodations - it really can make all the difference! When I applied for CalWORKs, I found it helpful to write down my questions beforehand because I tend to get overwhelmed and forget what I wanted to ask. Also, since you mentioned struggling with employment due to your autism, you might want to look into Regional Center services if you haven't already. They provide support services for people with developmental disabilities including autism, and they can help with job training, independent living skills, and even respite care. The services are free and could really complement your CalWORKs benefits. Don't be discouraged if the first worker you encounter isn't helpful - sometimes it takes finding the right person who understands disabilities. You deserve these benefits and support! Your daughter is lucky to have a mom who's working so hard to improve their situation.

I'm so glad to see all the supportive responses here! As someone who works with families navigating these systems, I wanted to add a few more resources that might help: 1. **Sensory accommodations**: You can request to complete your CalWORKs interview over the phone instead of in-person if the office environment is too overwhelming. This is a reasonable accommodation under the ADA. 2. **Emergency assistance**: Since you mentioned struggling with rent, CalWORKs has a one-time emergency assistance program that can help with housing costs while your regular application is being processed. 3. **WIC program**: With a 1-year-old, you should also apply for WIC (Women, Infants, and Children) if you haven't already. It provides specific foods, formula, and nutrition education - different from CalFresh but works alongside it. 4. **Autism-specific resources**: Look into your county's Developmental Disabilities Services office. They often have case managers who specialize in helping adults with autism navigate benefit systems and can even accompany you to appointments. The fact that you're reaching out and advocating for yourself shows incredible strength. Your daughter is fortunate to have such a determined parent fighting for your family's needs.

I just wanted to add something that helped me tremendously when I was applying for CalWORKs with my ADHD and anxiety - bring a trusted friend or family member with you if possible! They can help you remember important information and advocate for you if you get overwhelmed. Also, I see people mentioning the phone interview option, which is great, but I wanted to mention that you can also request written materials be provided in advance so you can review them at your own pace. This was a game-changer for me because I could process everything without the pressure of real-time questions. One more thing - if you're struggling with diapers right now, many food banks also distribute diapers and baby supplies while you're waiting for your CalWORKs application to process. Your local 211 can help you find these resources too. You don't have to wait for the official programs to get some immediate help! You sound like such a caring mom, and it's clear you're doing everything you can for your daughter. The system should work better for people with disabilities, but don't let that discourage you from getting the help you deserve. Rooting for you! 💕

I just wanted to share something that really helped me when I was applying for benefits with my sensory processing issues - many counties now offer "quiet hours" specifically for people with disabilities, usually early morning appointments before the office gets busy. When you call to schedule, ask if they have these available! Also, since you mentioned struggling with processing information quickly, you might want to look into getting a formal letter from a healthcare provider documenting your autism and how it affects your ability to process information in stressful environments. This can be really helpful not just for CalWORKs accommodations, but also for other programs down the line. One thing I wish someone had told me earlier - you can actually start gathering your documents and preparing your application even before you're ready to submit it. The BenefitsCal website lets you create an account and save your progress, so you can work on it in small chunks when you're feeling up to it rather than trying to do everything at once. You're doing such an amazing job advocating for yourself and your daughter. The fact that you're here asking questions and planning ahead shows what a thoughtful, caring parent you are. Don't let anyone at the county office make you feel rushed or like your questions aren't valid - you deserve clear answers and proper support! 🌟

As someone who also has autism and navigated CalWORKs as a single parent, I wanted to share a few things that made a huge difference for me: **Disability accommodations are KEY** - Don't just ask for them, be specific about what you need. I requested all paperwork be sent to me by mail instead of having to pick it up, extended time for deadlines, and written confirmation of any verbal instructions. These small changes made the process so much more manageable. **Know your rights regarding Work Requirements** - With your autism diagnosis, you should qualify for what's called a "disability-based exemption" from the Welfare-to-Work requirements. This means you won't be required to do job search activities or work training programs while receiving benefits. Make sure to bring documentation of how your autism affects your daily functioning. **Apply for multiple programs at once** - When you submit your CalWORKs application, also apply for Medi-Cal (free healthcare), CalFresh (you might qualify for more than you're currently getting), and ask about the Lifeline phone program for discounted cell service. Having all these supports together makes a real difference. **Emergency assistance is available** - Since you mentioned struggling with rent, CalWORKs has immediate need provisions that can provide emergency cash within days if you're facing eviction or utility shutoff. Don't wait for your full application to process if you're in crisis. You're not alone in this, and seeking help shows how much you care about providing for your daughter. The system is complicated, but you deserve these benefits! 💙

I'm so glad you found all this information helpful! Since you mentioned getting an eviction notice next week, I want to stress that you should apply for emergency assistance IMMEDIATELY - don't wait until you finish the full CalWORKs application. Call your county's CalWORKs office first thing in the morning and specifically say "I need to apply for immediate need assistance due to impending eviction." They're required to process emergency requests within 3 working days. Also, since you're dealing with an eviction situation, you should contact your local legal aid organization right away. Many areas have free legal services for tenants, and they might be able to help you negotiate with your landlord or understand your rights. The eviction process takes time, so you may have more options than you think. When you call for the emergency assistance, mention your autism diagnosis upfront and ask for accommodations - they can do the emergency interview over the phone which will be much easier for you than going to the office in crisis mode. You're handling this crisis with such strength and determination. Your daughter is lucky to have a mom who's fighting so hard for stability. Don't hesitate to reach out for help - that's exactly what these programs are for! 💜