How to apply for General Assistance (Tulare County)

Who it's for

Tulare County General Assistance (GA) provides temporary cash aid to adults who are unable to support themselves, do not receive other public funds, and are ineligible for any other assistance programs. 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. Two eligibility paths: (1) you are physically and mentally able to work but unable to find a job and willing to accept any work within your ability, or your earnings are below the GA income limit; or (2) a medical or mental-health professional has determined you are unable to work due to a physical or mental disability. To apply, visit a TulareWORKs office in person. TulareWORKs Visalia: 1-559-624-8110. Main HHSA office: 1845 N. Dinuba Boulevard, Visalia, CA 93291, 1-559-624-8100 (Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.).

What you'll need

• Proof of Tulare County residency
• Photo identification
• Proof of income and resources
• Documentation showing ineligibility for other categorical aid (SSI/SSDI/CalWORKs)
• Medical or mental-health professional verification (for the disability-based eligibility path)

Where to apply

Renewals

ongoing with periodic redetermination; employable recipients must remain available for and willing to accept any work within their ability