Where to Start: CalWORKs and Medi-Cal

California's main cash information program is CalWORKs (California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids). You explore through your county's Department of Social Services, not through a state office. Each county runs its own program, so the office you contact depends on where you live.

You can explore in three ways: online through your county's website, in person at your local Department of Social Services office, or by mail. The online route is fastest — most counties let you start an process on their portal without leaving home. If you do not know your county's website, search "[your county name] Department of Social Services CalWORKs" or call 211 California, which connects you to local resources and can tell you your county's phone number and office address.

CalWORKs provides monthly cash payments to families with children, pregnant people, and some adults without children. You may also become Medi-Cal may be able to access at the same time — Medi-Cal is California's health insurance program. Many people get both when they explore for cash information.

Key Takeaways

  • You explore for CalWORKs through your county Department of Social Services, and most counties let you start online without visiting an office.
  • You will need proof of identity, residency in California, income, and household composition — bring documents like a lease, pay stubs, and birth certificates.
  • The county will interview you (by phone or in person) to confirm your situation and explain work requirements, which vary by county.
  • Approval typically takes two to four weeks once the county has all your documents, though some counties are faster.
  • If you are denied, you can request a hearing to challenge the decision within a set time frame.

Documents You Will Need to Bring

Have these items ready before you explore, whether online or in person. The county will ask for proof of several things, and missing documents will delay your case.

Identity: A driver's license, passport, state ID card, or other government-issued photo ID. If you do not have one, bring a birth certificate plus a second document like a utility bill or school record.

Residency: Proof you live in California and in that specific county. A lease, mortgage statement, utility bill, or mail from a government agency with your address works. The document must be recent — usually from the last 60 days.

Income: Recent pay stubs (usually the last 30 days), tax returns, or a letter from your employer stating your wages. If you are self-employed, bring tax returns and bank statements. If you receive unemployment, Social Security, or other benefits, bring the award letter or benefit statement.

Household composition: Birth certificates or school records for any children in your home. If you are pregnant, bring medical records or a letter from your doctor confirming the pregnancy and due date.

Citizenship or immigration status: A Social Security card, passport, or birth certificate. If you are not a U.S. citizen, bring your immigration documents (green card, visa, work permit, or other proof of status). California allows some non-citizens to receive CalWORKs, so do not assume you are ineligible.

The process Process: What Happens After You Submit

Once you submit your process, the county will contact you within a few days to schedule an interview. This is usually by phone, though some counties do in-person interviews. The caseworker will ask about your household, income, expenses, and work history. They will also explain CalWORKs work requirements — most recipients must participate in work activities like job search, training, or employment.

After the interview, the county will review your documents and make a decision. If something is missing, they will send you a notice asking you to provide it by a important date — usually 10 days. If you miss the important date, your case may be denied, but you can reapply.

Approval typically takes two to four weeks from the date you submit a complete process. Some counties are faster; others slower. Once approved, you will receive a debit card (called the Golden State Advantage card in most counties) within one to two weeks. Your monthly payment amount depends on your household size and county — California sets a base amount, but it varies.

Work Requirements and What You Must Do

CalWORKs is a work program, so most recipients must participate in work activities to keep receiving benefits. The specific requirements depend on your county and your situation. Common activities include job search, vocational training, community service, or paid employment.

If you are a parent with a child under age 6, you may have reduced work requirements. If you are over 60, disabled, or caring for a disabled family member, you may be exempt. Your caseworker will explain what you must do at your interview.

If you do not meet your work requirements without a good reason, the county can reduce or stop your benefits. If you have a barrier to work — illness, disability, lack of childcare, domestic violence — tell your caseworker. They can adjust your plan or refer you to services that may help.

If You Are Denied or Your Benefits Stop

If the county denies your process or stops your benefits, you will receive a written notice explaining why. The notice will also tell you how to request a hearing to challenge the decision. You usually have 10 days from the date of the notice to ask for a hearing.

At a hearing, you can present documents, explain your situation, and ask questions. A hearing officer (not your caseworker) will listen and make a decision. You can bring someone to help you — a friend, family member, or legal advocate. Many counties have legal aid organizations that help people with CalWORKs hearings for free.

If you believe the county made a mistake, request the hearing. It does not cost anything, and you may win back benefits or get your case reopened.

Other Cash information Programs in California

CalWORKs is the largest program, but California also offers cash information through other programs depending on your situation.

SSI/SSP (Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment): For people who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled. You explore through Social Security, and California adds a state payment on top. Call Social Security at 1-800-772-1213 or visit your local Social Security office.

CAPI (Cash information Program for Immigrants): For immigrants who do not meet SSI rules but are 65 or older, blind, or disabled. You explore at your county Department of Social Services, similar to CalWORKs.

RFA (Refugee Family information): For refugees and some other immigrants in their first eight months in the United States. You explore at your county office.

If you are not sure which program fits your situation, call 211 California or your county Department of Social Services. They can tell you which programs you may be able to access.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I explore for CalWORKs if I am not a U.S. citizen?

Yes. California allows certain non-citizens to receive CalWORKs, including lawful permanent residents, refugees, asylees, and some other immigration statuses. Bring your immigration documents when you explore. If you are unsure about your status, ask the caseworker — they can tell you whether you are may be able to access.

What if I am working but still do not have enough money?

You can still explore for CalWORKs. The program is for working families too. Your income limit depends on your household size, but most counties allow you to earn some income and still receive benefits. The county will calculate how much you can earn before your benefits reduce.

How much money will I get each month?

The amount depends on your household size and your county. California sets a base payment, but each county can adjust it. Call your county Department of Social Services or check their website to see the current payment amounts. You can also ask during your interview.

What happens if I move to a different county in California?

You will need to reapply in your new county. Your old county will close your case, and your new county will start a new one. Bring the same documents you used before. Some counties can transfer your case faster if you contact them before you move.

Can I get benefits while I am waiting for my process decision?

In some cases, yes. If you are in urgent need and meet certain conditions, the county may give you emergency information while your process is being reviewed. Ask your caseworker about emergency aid when you explore.