DPSS SNAP Recertification: How to Actually Reach a Human?

I found a way to solve SNAP recertification call difficulties, watch this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fvMfaYScbW4

Ugh, DPSS is the worst! I've been trying to get through for weeks. It's like they don't want us to actually get help. 🤬

I feel your pain, OP. I finally got through last week after trying for days. Here's what worked for me: 1. Call right when they open at 7:30 AM 2. Choose option 2 for existing cases 3. Then option 1 for recertification 4. If it says high call volume, hang up and try again It took me about 5 tries but I finally got in the queue. Good luck!

Has anyone tried the online portal? I heard they updated it recently, but idk if it actually works for recertification.

Pro tip: if you can't get through on the main line, try calling your local DPSS office directly. Sometimes they're less busy.

Guys, I found a method that actually works to get someone on the phone. I used this site's (claimyr.com) calling tool that dials the phone menu, stays on hold, waits for a live agent to pick up, then sends the call to my phone. It does cost $20, but it works. Here's a video explaining it: https://youtu.be/4RyuKFckT6k

I'm in the same boat, OP. Been trying to recertify for 2 weeks now. This whole process is a joke. Why can't they just make it easier for people who need help? 😫

Has anyone tried going to the office in person? I'm thinking about just showing up tomorrow and refusing to leave until someone helps me.

LPT: If you're having trouble recertifying, contact your local state representative's office. They often have liaisons who can help cut through the red tape.

Anyone else notice that the DPSS seems to be getting worse every year? I've been on SNAP for 5 years now and I swear it gets harder to deal with them each time. 😤

I totally understand your frustration! I went through the same thing last month. What finally worked for me was calling at exactly 7:30 AM when they open and repeatedly pressing 0 during the automated menu - sometimes it bypasses the whole system and connects you to a real person. Also, try calling on Tuesdays or Wednesdays - Mondays and Fridays are absolutely insane. Don't give up, your benefits are too important! 💪

I'm dealing with the same nightmare right now! Been trying to recertify for over a week and it's so stressful. Thanks for posting this - at least I know I'm not alone. I'm going to try calling right at 7:30 AM tomorrow like some people suggested. This whole system really needs to be fixed. People shouldn't have to jump through hoops just to get basic help with food assistance. Hope you get through soon! 🙏

I've been dealing with DPSS for recertification too and it's such a headache! What worked for me was calling the main number (877-481-1044) and when you get to the automated menu, press 1 for English, then 3 for CalFresh/SNAP, then 2 for existing benefits. When it asks what you need help with, say "representative" clearly - sometimes the voice recognition picks it up and transfers you faster than going through all the menu options. Also, if you get the "high call volume" message, don't hang up right away - sometimes it will still put you in queue after a few seconds. The wait can be brutal (I was on hold for 2+ hours) but at least you're in line. Hang in there! 💪

Hey everyone, I just got off the phone with DPSS after a 3-hour ordeal and wanted to share what I learned. The key is persistence and having ALL your documents ready before you even dial. I called at 7:29 AM sharp, used the menu options that @Javier Mendoza shared (thanks for those exact steps!), and when I finally got through, the caseworker was actually super helpful. She told me that recertification packets can also be submitted online through YourBenefitsNow.com - apparently they've improved the upload feature recently. Just make sure to get a confirmation receipt! Also, pro tip from the caseworker: if your benefits are set to expire within 10 days and you submit your recert paperwork, they'll extend them automatically while processing. Don't give up, y'all - the system sucks but there are real people on the other end trying to help! 🙏

Just wanted to add another option that worked for me - if you have a smartphone, try downloading the "GetHuman" app. It has shortcuts for DPSS and other government agencies that can help you navigate their phone systems faster. It's free and shows you exactly which buttons to press and when to press them. Also, if you're really desperate, some local community centers and food banks have advocates who can help you navigate DPSS - they sometimes have direct lines or know caseworkers personally. Don't be afraid to ask for help from local organizations too! Hope this helps someone 🤞

OMG thank you all so much for sharing your experiences and tips! 🙏 I've been reading through all the comments and taking notes. I'm going to try the 7:30 AM sharp strategy tomorrow with the exact menu sequence that @Javier Mendoza shared, and I'll definitely have all my documents ready beforehand like @Evelyn Rivera suggested. It's such a relief to know about the 10-day extension rule too - that takes so much pressure off! I also just downloaded the GetHuman app that @Dylan Cooper mentioned. It's crazy that we have to become experts at navigating phone systems just to get basic assistance, but at least now I feel like I have a real plan. Will update you all on how it goes! Fingers crossed 🤞