Benefits · Income Support
How to apply for General Assistance (Madera County)
Madera County Department of Social Services
Who it's for
Madera County General Assistance (GA) is a 100% county-funded program that provides temporary cash aid to eligible indigent individuals who are ineligible for federal or state public assistance programs. Benefits are issued via Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card. For a low-income senior it is mainly a bridge while a Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) claim is pending. To qualify, you must be at least 18 (or an emancipated/married/divorced minor), a Madera County resident for at least 15 days, a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and unemployed, incapacitated, or pending SSI. Employable individuals are eligible only for 90 days within a 12-month period. Apply in person at Madera, Chowchilla, or Oakhurst offices, or request an application by calling 1-559-675-2300.
Madera County GA has conditions the scan cannot check for you: 18+ (or emancipated minor), 15-day Madera residency, U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, unemployed/incapacitated/pending-SSI. Employable applicants are limited to 90 days in any 12-month period. The maderacounty.com GA page does not publish a maximum monthly grant amount. Apply in person at Madera/Chowchilla/Oakhurst offices or call 1-559-675-2300.
What you'll need
- Proof of Madera County residency (15-day minimum)
- Photo identification
- Proof of U.S. citizenship or lawful permanent residence
- Documentation showing ineligibility for other categorical aid (SSI/SSDI/CalWORKs)
Where to apply
Apply online: official application
By phone: 1-559-675-2300
Renewals
Employable: up to 90 days in a 12-month period. Incapacitated/pending-SSI: ongoing with periodic redetermination.
Not sure if you qualify? Run a free check first.
Find my benefitsNot legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.