How to apply for General Assistance (Stanislaus County)

Who it's for

Stanislaus County General Assistance (GA) is a county-funded GRANT (not a loan) that provides temporary support to indigent adults who have no other 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 — disabled applicants can receive GA until the SSI determination is made (a long-term bridge), while employable applicants are limited to up to 90 days within a 12-month period. To qualify, you must be an adult without dependent children under 18, a U.S. citizen or legal resident, a Stanislaus County resident for at least 15 days who intends to remain, and have property worth no more than $300 (cash and bank funds must be used for living expenses). Apply in person only — appointments are available on a first-come first-served basis starting at 8:00 a.m. weekdays at 251 E. Hackett Road, Modesto. For general information, call 1-877-652-0734.

What you'll need

• Proof of identity
• Social Security card
• Proof of property ownership and income verification
• Proof of Stanislaus County residency

Where to apply

Renewals

Employable adults: up to 90 days within a 12-month period; disabled applicants: extends until SSI determination