CalWORKs is a Human Services program that gives cash aid and services to eligible California families. The program serves all 58 counties in the state and is operated locally by county welfare departments.
If a family has little or no cash and needs housing, food, utilities, clothing or medical care, they may be eligible to receive immediate short-term help. Families that apply and qualify for ongoing assistance receive money each month to help pay for housing, food and other necessary expenses.
The amount of a family’s monthly assistance payment depends on a number of factors, including the number of people who are eligible and the special needs of any of those family members. The income of the family is considered in calculating the amount of cash aid the family receives.
There are other programs and benefits, such as Homeless Assistance, for which a family may qualify by being on CalWORKs.
Who Qualifies for CalWORKS
Specific eligibility requirements take into account an applicant’s citizenship, age, income, resources, and other factors. Generally, services are available to:
Families that have an age-eligible child(ren) in the home or are pregnant and deprived due to one or both parents:
- Death
- Absence
- Physical or mental incapacity
- Unemployment