DPSS took too long processing SAR-7, CalFresh/SNAP benefits discontinued. How to get them back?
My SAR-7 was completed and processed but DPSS took too long and now my benefits are discontinued. I need my CalFresh/SNAP benefits back. I called and the worker disconnected and said they'd call back but never did. Has anyone else had this problem? What can I do to get my benefits reinstated?
24 comments


AstroAdventurer
Ugh, DPSS is the worst! I had a similar issue last year. Have you tried going to the office in person? Sometimes that's the only way to get things done.
0 coins
Jamal Carter
•I haven't tried going in person yet. Do you know if I need an appointment or can I just walk in?
0 coins
AstroAdventurer
•Last time I went, it was walk-in. But be prepared to wait ALL day. Bring snacks and a phone charger!
0 coins
Mei Liu
•pro tip: go early in the morning, like right when they open. youll have a better chance of being seen quickly
0 coins
Liam O'Sullivan
This happens way too often. The system is broken af. I've been dealing with DPSS for years and it never gets better. 🤦♂️
0 coins
Amara Chukwu
Hey, I work for a non-profit that helps with these issues. Here's what you need to do: 1. Document everything. Write down dates, times, and names of who you spoke to. 2. File a formal complaint with DPSS. You can do this online or in person. 3. Contact your local legal aid office. They often have advocates who can help push things along. 4. Reach out to your county supervisor's office. They can sometimes intervene on your behalf. 5. Keep calling DPSS, but also send everything in writing (email or certified mail). Don't give up! You're entitled to these benefits and DPSS has a responsibility to process your SAR-7 in a timely manner. Good luck!
0 coins
Jamal Carter
•Thank you so much for this detailed advice! I'll start working on these steps right away. Do you have any specific tips for the complaint process?
0 coins
Amara Chukwu
•For the complaint, be as specific as possible. Include dates, times, and any case numbers or reference numbers you have. Explain clearly what went wrong and what resolution you're seeking. If you have any supporting documents, attach copies (never send originals). Good luck!
0 coins
Giovanni Conti
I found a method 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 about it: https://youtu.be/4RyuKFckT6k
0 coins
Fatima Al-Hashimi
•Sounds sketchy. Is this legit? Has anyone else tried it?
0 coins
Giovanni Conti
•I was skeptical too, but it actually worked for me. Saved me hours of hold time. Worth the $20 imo
0 coins
NeonNova
•$20 to talk to someone?! That's ridiculous. The system is so broken if we have to pay just to get basic service 😡
0 coins
Giovanni Conti
•I get it, but for me, time is money. I'd rather pay $20 than waste a whole day on hold or at the office. Just sharing what worked for me! 🤷♂️
0 coins
Dylan Campbell
have u tried faxing ur SAR-7 again? sometimes they "lose" paperwork conveniently 🙄
0 coins
Jamal Carter
•I haven't tried faxing it again. Do you know if there's a specific fax number I should use?
0 coins
Dylan Campbell
•yea, its on their website. make sure u keep the fax confirmation page as proof!
0 coins
Sofia Hernandez
This is why I always tell people to apply for CalFresh AND General Relief at the same time. That way, if one gets messed up, you still have some support. It's a pain, but it's saved my butt before.
0 coins
Dmitry Kuznetsov
Bruh, DPSS be playin games with our lives fr 💀 I swear they got a dartboard to decide who gets benefits each month
0 coins
Ava Thompson
•LMAO 🎯 Probably got our names on little paper airplanes too
0 coins
Dmitry Kuznetsov
•Frfr, and they only open the window when mercury's in retrograde or smth 😂
0 coins
Miguel Ramos
Hey OP, what county are you in? Some counties are worse than others with this stuff. Might help to know for giving more specific advice.
0 coins
Jamal Carter
•I'm in Los Angeles County. Does that change anything?
0 coins
Miguel Ramos
•Oof, LA is tough. Big population, overworked staff. Definitely try the in-person route if you can. The Glendale office tends to be less crowded if that's not too far for you.
0 coins
Zainab Ibrahim
PSA: Always keep copies of EVERYTHING you submit to DPSS. I learned this the hard way. Now I have a whole file cabinet just for benefit paperwork 📁😅
0 coins