Will my address be visible to my ex when CalWORKs requires child support cooperation?

You absolutely can request address confidentiality with child support services! When you're cooperating with child support for CalWORKs, you have the right to claim "good cause" if you fear for your safety. Did your eligibility worker mention the "good cause" exemption to you? Even if you've already started the cooperation process, call your worker ASAP and tell them you need to file for good cause due to domestic violence concerns. They should give you a form called CW 51 to complete. Your address will be kept confidential once you do this.

same thing happened 2 me. u can still get calworks even if u claim good cause, it wont effect ur benefits. the child support ppl SHOULD keep ur info private but honestly theres been mistakes b4. def tell them ur worried abt safety!!

This is an extremely important safety issue. You need to request the Family Violence Option/Good Cause Waiver immediately. Here's exactly what to do: 1. Call your CalWORKs worker and clearly state you need to claim good cause due to domestic violence/safety concerns 2. Complete the CW 51 form they provide 3. Provide any evidence you can (police reports, restraining orders, etc.) but your sworn statement alone can be enough 4. Until this is processed, the child support office should not proceed with your case Your address should be protected, and you can still receive your full Cash Aid amount. The law specifically protects DV survivors from having to cooperate with child support enforcement if it poses a risk.

I've been trying to reach my CalWORKs worker for three days about a similar issue and keep getting disconnected! So frustrating when these are time-sensitive safety issues. I finally used this service called Claimyr that got me through to an actual person at the county office within 20 minutes - claimyr.com. They have a demo video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/jzISHxCPLwE Seriously worth it for peace of mind on something this important. I got my good cause form processed the same day once I actually talked to someone.

Just adding that the good cause claim isn't automatic - they still review it. Make sure to follow up! I thought mine was approved but then got a notice saying my CalWORKs would be reduced because I wasn't cooperating with child support. Turned out they needed additional documentation. Definitely stay on top of your case.

Wait I'm confused... I thought CalFresh didn't require child support cooperation anymore? Only Cash Aid requires it right?? I've been on CalFresh for 2 years and never had to deal with child support stuff.

Yes, I got full benefits after providing the documentation. For anyone reading this with similar concerns - the law specifically states that survivors of domestic violence can be exempt from the child support cooperation requirement. Your worker should provide the form during your application, but many don't unless you specifically ask. Some counties are better trained on this than others.

I wanted to update everyone - I was finally able to reach my worker after using that Claimyr service someone suggested. They immediately helped me file the good cause claim and reassured me that my address won't be disclosed. They're sending me the CW 51 form today and said my benefits won't be affected as long as I return it within 20 days. Such a relief! Thank you all for the advice and support!