Selection of Case Numbers

The following case selection criteria (hierarchy) shall be applied when combining cases in CalSAWS:

  • Open cases take precedence over closed cases.
  • If more than one case is opened, the cases must be merged into the case with an EBT account.

The following chart further illustrates the hierarchy of how cases are to be selected:

If... Then...
More than one case is in an open status,

Merge the cases into one case, using the case with an EBT case first.

Example Example There is an existing Medi-Cal and an existing CalFresh Case. The client is applying for CalWORKs. The Medi-Cal case must be closed and CalWORKs and Medi-Cal added to the CalFresh case. 
A case is in an open status,

The opened case must be used, regardless of whether an EBT account was established in that case or not.

Example Example There is an existing Medi-Cal case. A separate CalWORKs case with an EBT account was established at one time, but is now closed. The client is now requesting CalFresh. The CalFresh should be added to the Medi-Cal case, since this case is in an open status. 

Assignment of CalSAWS Case Numbers

Case Contents

For a single HCG, a case number contains requested and/or mandated:

  • Benefit Programs (e.g., Cash Aid, CalFresh and Medi-Cal, etc.)
  • Employment Services (e.g., Welfare to Work (WTW), etc.).
    • Including Child Care.

More Than One Household Group Residing in the Home

When more than one HCG resides in the home, each HCG requesting benefits or services will be in a separate case number. The cases will be linked as companion cases for EDBC as required by program eligibility.

Example Example There are two CalWORKs household composition groups who receive CalFresh together. Their cases will be linked together for the purpose of determining the correct CalFresh allotment using the appropriate CalWORKs benefits and other applicable information. Again, the determination of which individuals comprise a Household Composition Group will be based on the two key factors: relationships and living arrangements. 

Employment Services

CalSAWS will be able to determine services and payments for the individual person. It will identify the appropriate groups of persons connected to the person(s) being served for required determinations.

Related Topics

Description of Case Structure