How to apply for Assistance Dog Special Allowance (ADSA) — $50 a month in California

Who it's for

ADSA pays $50 a month to help with food, grooming and health care for a guide, signal or service dog. You qualify if you use an assistance dog for your disability and you get SSI/SSP, In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS), the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI). Fill out form ADSA1 (ADSA1B if your benefit is SSDI) and mail it to CDSS at 744 P Street, MS 9-11-91, Sacramento, CA 95814. Renew each year with form ADSA1A. Questions: 916-657-2628 or ADSAUser@dss.ca.gov.

What you'll need

• Completed form ADSA1 (or ADSA1B for SSDI recipients)
• Proof you receive SSI/SSP, IHSS, CAPI or SSDI
• Information about your assistance dog

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about Assistance Dog Special Allowance (ADSA) — $50 a month. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need completed form ADSA1 (or ADSA1B for SSDI recipients), proof you receive SSI/SSP, IHSS, CAPI or SSDI, information about your assistance dog — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Renewals

annual (form ADSA1A)