In my experience, staying organized and connecting with local caseworkers saved me a lot of time—think of it like herding cats while keeping a spreadsheet. Don’t be surprised if you discover that some programs are easier to navigate than others, or that one person’s “quick approval” is someone else’s 3-week waiting game. The trick? Have all your paperwork ready (phones, receipts, the works) and ask for a clear timeline. It’s not rocket science, but it’s definitely a juggling act!
