How to apply for General Assistance (Sacramento County)

Who it's for

Sacramento County General Assistance (GA) is a county-administered cash-aid program for indigent adults 18 and older with no means of support. 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. You must be physically present in Sacramento County, a Sacramento County resident for at least 15 days, and intend to continue residing in the County. Individuals deemed employable receive GA for up to 90 days in a 12-month period; individuals determined unemployable due to a temporary or long-term disability may receive GA until the disability is resolved. Apply by phone at 1-800-560-0976 (Mon–Fri 8 AM–4 PM), online via the State's SAWS 1 application, or in person at 2450 Florin Road, Sacramento (Mon–Fri 7:45 AM–4:00 PM).

What you'll need

• Proof of physical presence in Sacramento County for at least 15 days
• Proof of intent to continue residing in Sacramento County
• Proof of income, housing situation, and net resources
• Photo identification
• Medical verification of any disability that exempts you from the 90-day employable cap

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about General Assistance (Sacramento County). 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 proof of physical presence in Sacramento County for at least 15 days, proof of intent to continue residing in Sacramento County, proof of income, housing situation, and net resources — 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

employable adults capped at 90 days per 12-month period; unemployable disability recipients receive GA until the disability is resolved