When the COVID-19 pandemic caused an 80% surge in CalFresh applications in just one month, L.A. County Department of Public Social Services faced mounting pressure to verify income and determine eligibility quickly. Partnering with Equifax Workforce Solutions, the agency enhanced its use of The Work Number®, trained staff for real-time verification, and expanded call center support. As a result, L.A. County DPSS achieved same-day approval rates of up to 50% for new applicants and 80% for renewals—improving access to critical benefits while building a foundation for lasting process innovation.