Not considering the 60 month time limit
It is important to consider the 60 month limit on cash benefits in CalWORKs. These aren't necessarily consecutive months, but any month you receive a cash payment from CalWORKs counts, even if you are only receiving a minimal benefit. This time limit does not apply to children.
Enrolling in CalWORKs just to access Medi-Cal or Food Stamps for your family
You or your family may be eligible for Medi-Cal or Food Stamps through other programs. When you use CalWORKs just to get these other benefits, those months will count against the time limit.
Not Understanding the Maximum Family Grants (MFG) Rules
Additional children born while you are receiving CalWORKs may not be covered.
Confusing the cash aid benefits and Welfare-to-Work benefits
CalWORKs is a large program that provides both cash aid and employment services. All CalWORKs cash aid recipients must participate in the Welfare-to-Work Program to receive cash aid, unless exempt. You can be ineligible to receive cash aid but still be able to use Welfare-to-Work services.
Confusing hourly requirements for Welfare-to-Work Program and paid child care
Although paid child care accompanies participation in the Welfare-to-Work Program, there are different hourly requirements for child care and work activity, depending on the number of parents in the family.
