Benefits · Income Support

How to apply for General Relief (Marin County)

Marin County Department of Health & Human Services — Public Assistance

Who it's for

Marin County General Relief (GR) is a county-funded program that provides temporary cash assistance as a LOAN to help residents meet basic needs when they have little or no money. 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. Most applicants can receive GR for up to six months within a 12-month period; people with disabilities may continue longer. To qualify you must be a Marin County resident who intends to remain in the County, be a U.S. citizen / Lawful Permanent Resident / PRUCOL, be at least 18 years old without dependents (or with less than 50% custody — married couples may apply together), and meet the resource limits ($400 cash/bank for an individual, $800 for a couple). The maximum monthly loan is $387 for an individual or $636 for a married couple. Apply in person at Marin County HHS Public Assistance, 120 North Redwood Drive, San Rafael, Monday through Friday 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. For more information call 1-415-473-3450.

Marin County GR is a LOAN — cash assistance must be repaid. You must be a Marin County resident, U.S. citizen / LPR / PRUCOL, at least 18 years old without dependents (or with less than 50% custody), with cash/bank resources at or under $400 (individual) or $800 (couple). Most applicants receive GR for up to 6 months in a 12-month period; longer for disabled applicants. Maximum monthly loan is $387 single / $636 couple. Apply in person at 120 North Redwood Drive, San Rafael, M-F 8am-4pm, or call 1-415-473-3450.

What you'll need

  • Proof of Marin County residency
  • Photo identification
  • Proof of U.S. citizenship, Lawful Permanent Resident status, or PRUCOL
  • Bank statements showing cash/balances at or under $400 (individual) or $800 (couple)
  • Proof of income, resources, and ineligibility for federal/state categorical aid

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 1-415-473-3450

Renewals

Most applicants up to 6 months in a 12-month period; disabled applicants may continue longer

Official source →Last verified · May 24, 2026

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.