[FAQ] Common Issues with Cheats

First off, I use cheats but never mods. I used to be able to use the get sim id cheat but it no longer works for me.  It does not work for ANY of my sims any more. It always tells me sim not found.  I went around and checked.  Since it worked before I don't understand why not. It is a cheat that I frequently use. I tried reloading the game. I tried changing sims names. I tried clearing the cache. I tried getting rid of some sims, since I have over the recommended 80, that did not help, but I did not clear out my sims back to 80. I have 160+ sims including animals. I was wondering if that was the problem. I only have 1 repetitive first name and that was an accident but I do have common last names due to sims having kids.  I don't know if that is a factor, but I did try changing names and it did not help. I really am at a loss for this one. 

Here are my particulars: Product: The Sims 4; Platform: Dell Laptop through Steam; Language: English; How often does it occur?; Every time now; When was the last time it worked? I believe it was  about 2 or 3 weeks ago; Current Game version is the latest; Installed stuff: Snowy Escape, Island Living, Jungle Adventure, Outdoor Retreat, Cats & Dogs, Werewolves, Paranormal, Realm of Magic, Vampires, Spooky, Greenhouse Haven, Book Nook, Backyard, Cottage Living, Discover University, Get Famous, City Living, Get Together, Get to Work, Dine Out, Spa Day; How does the bug occur: 1st-press Control + Shift + C at same time, 2nd-type in testingcheats on (or true both enable cheats for me and neither changes the bug), 3rd-type in sims.get_sim_id_by_name (First name)(Last name); When I do this what happens? Whatever name I type in (an I tried several) I always get Sim not found. What did I expect: I used to expect to see my sims id number in the box instead, I use no mods. I do not believe it is related to any updates. I always check and re-check typing (and several times if I feel it is necessary). Cheats always said they were enabled in the box. Can you help me?

Thanks in advance,

calmhere