How to apply for General Assistance (Alameda County)

Who it's for

Alameda County General Assistance (GA) provides cash aid to indigent adults and emancipated minors who are legal residents of Alameda County and who have no other means of support. For a low-income senior it is mainly a bridge while a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or California Aid for the Indigent Disabled (CAPI) claim is pending. To qualify you must be a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen legally present in the country with no limitation on your stay, a resident of Alameda County for at least 15 days, and either an adult without dependent children or an emancipated minor. Personal property cannot exceed $1,000. The County publishes a maximum monthly grant of $336 for a single person and $548 for a couple; the actual grant depends on housing and other income. Apply online through the GA application portal, by phone, or in person.

What you'll need

• Proof of Alameda County residency (at least 15 days)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or non-citizen status with no limitation on stay
• Proof that personal property does not exceed $1,000
• Proof of income and housing situation
• Photo identification

Where to apply

Renewals

ongoing with periodic redetermination