Is there a way to find store status?

You may want to go over to the AHQ site and post this issue over there so that the people from EA can see it and have a look at what might be causing it. I know some people were having issues with the store after they had to switch from Origin to the new EA app, so I don't know if this is the reason why but you might find other players over there that may be experiencing the same thing as you... :)
https://answers.ea.com/t5/The-Sims-3/ct-p/the-sims-3-en

"TwoCapybaras;c-18240448" wrote:
It troubles me that more people aren't talking about the fact that the store is down. Unless they are, and the conversation is just going on elsewhere.

Actually the store is still up and running as I can get into everyday to look at the Daily Deal page... :)