IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Changes to CalWORKs beginning July 1, 2011
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CalWORKs
The CalWORKs (California Work Opportunity & Responsibility to Kids) program can provide cash assistance to families with children.  Certain adults in the program are required to participate in welfare-to-work activities, such as looking for a job, attending job training, working, or furthering their education, which will improve their chances for long term employment and self-sufficiency.  CalWORKs employment specialists help parents develop and achieve their career goals, and assist with referrals to child care so that parents can work.  CalWORKs participants are automatically eligible for Medi-Cal and may qualify for CalFresh benefits.

Eligibility

When you apply, you will be asked for information about your residency, citizenship, Social Security Number, income, property, school attendance, and child support.  Additionally, adults will need to have their fingerprints and a photo taken, and children must get their immunizations.

You may qualify for CalWORKs if you are a low-income or unemployed parent with dependent children living at home.  Countable monthly income must be under a certain limit (see table above).  Since there are many kinds of deductions, you are encouraged to apply, even if your income is close to the countable income amount.  Also, the property limit is $2,000 per family or $3,000 per family if a member is over age 60 or has disabilities.  Examples of property include cash, bank accounts, vehicles, and homes, although the home you live in is not included.

How To Apply
There are two ways to apply for CalWORKs:

1) Fill out an online application for CalWORKs Cash Aid for Families with Children at Benefits CalWIN (Note: an in-person interview is also required.)

2) Apply in person at an Intake & Eligibility Center.