How do you apply for welfare benefits in California?

You can apply for welfare benefits in California by either contacting your county welfare department, visiting your local welfare office or applying online. The online application allows you to apply for any of California's welfare programs, regardless of your county of residence.

1. Understand which benefits are available

   There are several types of benefits available in California, including cash assistance, food aid and medical coverage. Your eligibility to receive benefits depends on your income, the number of household members and other factors. California's array of social services also includes programs for immigrants who are blind or disabled, or those who meet income requirements for aid and are ineligible for other state aid programs solely because of their immigration status. Find more details about available welfare online or at your local welfare office.

2. Apply for benefits

   Once you have decided which benefits you need, fill out and submit an online application or apply for benefits in person at your local welfare office.To apply for benefits online, you will need to first create an account, which includes personal information, such as the county where you currently live and details about your income. You can then fill out and submit your application.

3. Follow up

   Once you have submitted an application for welfare benefits, follow up on your application status or your existing case with your county welfare department.