How to apply for General Assistance (Santa Clara County)

Who it's for

Santa Clara County General Assistance (GA) is a county-funded cash-aid and employment-services program for indigent adults without dependent children who have no other means of support and are ineligible for federal or state cash aid. For a low-income senior, GA 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 Santa Clara County resident with at least 15 days of continuous physical presence and the intent to remain indefinitely, a U.S. citizen or qualified non-citizen, and have no more than $500 in countable resources (the home you live in is not counted). Applicants with a verified medical disability are not expected to participate in the Vocational Services program. The County determines eligibility within 45 days of a complete application.

What you'll need

• Proof of Santa Clara County residency (at least 15 continuous days of physical presence)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or qualified non-citizen status
• Proof that countable resources do not exceed $500 (home you live in is excluded)
• Photo identification
• Medical verification of any disability that exempts you from Vocational Services

Where to apply

What to say when you call

“Hello, I'm calling to ask about General Assistance (Santa Clara 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 santa clara county residency (at least 15 continuous days of physical presence), proof of u.s. citizenship or qualified non-citizen status, proof that countable resources do not exceed $500 (home you live in is excluded) — 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

ongoing with periodic redetermination; employable adults are time-limited