TANF Assistance for Single Mothers in California
The Ultimate Guide to TANF in California (CalWORKs) for Single Mothers
Last updated: August 2025
CalWORKs is California’s version of TANF cash aid. It’s run by county human services offices, funded by state and federal dollars, and designed to keep children safe in their homes while parents stabilize income.
Quick Help Box
- Apply online now at BenefitsCal (California’s official application portal). If the site is down, call your county (find your office via the County Welfare Department Directory).
- If you don’t have food, rent, or utility money, ask for “Immediate Need” when you apply. If you qualify, the county must issue up to a small emergency payment within 24 hours. Source: CDSS CalWORKs overview.
- If you are homeless or about to be, ask for CalWORKs Homeless Assistance the same day. It can cover motel stays for up to 16 days and help with move‑in costs. Source: CDSS CalWORKs Homeless Assistance (program description).
- If you have wages, CalWORKs still may help. California ignores the first part of your earnings (earned income disregard) before figuring your grant. Learn how it works below and confirm with your worker. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- If you feel unsafe due to domestic violence, tell your worker. You can get “good cause” for work rules and child support cooperation. Source: CDSS Domestic Violence Services.
- If stuck, call your county’s customer service:
- Los Angeles DPSS: 866-613-3777 — LA DPSS site
- San Diego HHSA: 866-262-9881 — San Diego HHSA site
- San Francisco HSA: 415-557-5000 — SF HSA site
- Fresno DSS: 855-832-8082 — Fresno County DSS
- Sacramento DHA: 916-874-3100 — Sacramento DHA
- Not sure where to go? Use the CDSS County Office Finder or dial 211 for local referrals (211 California).
CalWORKs in one page (what it is, who it helps, how to start)
Action first: Apply at BenefitsCal or visit your county office (find it via the CDSS County Directory). If you have no money for essentials, ask for “Immediate Need” right away.
CalWORKs provides monthly cash aid for eligible families with minor children. It includes work services, child care, and special help if you’re homeless or at risk of homelessness. It is the TANF program for California. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
CalWORKs at a glance
| Topic | Quick facts | Where to confirm |
|---|---|---|
| What you get | Monthly cash aid on an EBT card; work supports; child care (Stage One); Homeless Assistance; case management | CDSS CalWORKs overview |
| Who qualifies | California resident with a child under 19 (or pregnant and meeting special rules), meeting income rules and other conditions | CDSS CalWORKs |
| How long | Up to 48 months lifetime for adults; children may continue on a Safety Net case | CDSS Time on Aid |
| How to apply | Online (BenefitsCal), in‑person at your county, or by mail/fax | BenefitsCal |
| Decision time | Most applications must be processed within 45 days | County practice aligns with state rules; see your county site and CDSS CalWORKs |
| Emergency cash | “Immediate Need” within 24 hours if you qualify | CDSS CalWORKs |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If BenefitsCal is unavailable, go in person to your county office from the CDSS County Directory and ask for same‑day help and “Immediate Need.”
Who qualifies (eligibility rules you can check today)
Action first: Use the county directory to talk to an eligibility worker about your specific situation: Find your county CalWORKs office.
Core rules (confirm details with your county):
- You live in California, have a child under 19 in your home, or you are pregnant and meet program rules. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Your countable income (after certain disregards) must be under CalWORKs limits for your family size. The state uses a monthly needs standard (MBSAC) and sets a maximum grant (MAP). Check the current charts on the CalWORKs page under “Grant Levels (MAP)” and “Income Limits (MBSAC).” Source: CDSS CalWORKs (MAP/MBSAC charts).
- Adults have a 48‑month lifetime CalWORKs limit, with exemptions (disability, domestic violence, etc.). Children can often stay on aid (Safety Net) even if the parent times out. Source: CDSS CalWORKs Time on Aid.
- Work rules (Welfare‑to‑Work): Generally 20 hours/week if your youngest child is under 6; 30 hours/week if 6 or older; 35 hours/week for two‑parent families. Your county will tailor a plan. Source: CDSS Welfare‑to‑Work.
- Immigration: Children who are U.S. citizens or “qualified” immigrants may be eligible. Parents who are undocumented can apply for “child‑only” aid for eligible children. Ask your county about “sponsor deeming” and exceptions. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- If you receive SSI, you’re not counted for your own CalWORKs grant, but your children can get child‑only CalWORKs. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- You must cooperate with child support unless you have good cause (e.g., safety concerns). California “passes through” some child support to your family each month even if you’re on CalWORKs—see “Money you can get” below. Source: California Child Support Services – Pass‑Through (state site).
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re close to the limit, ask the worker to calculate with the earned income disregard (see the next section). If denied and you think it’s wrong, request a state hearing right away: How to Request a Hearing (CDSS).
How much money could you get?
Action first: Look up the exact grant for your family size and county region on the state’s current charts (they change). See the “Grant Levels (MAP)” on the CDSS CalWORKs page. If you can’t find the chart, ask your worker to show you the latest MAP and MBSAC tables in your office.
Important pieces that affect your grant:
- Maximum Aid Payment (MAP): The base monthly grant for your family size. California historically used two “regions” for some differences. The exact $ amount depends on family size, region, and whether your case is in “exempt” or “non‑exempt” status. Source: CDSS CalWORKs (MAP charts).
- Earned income disregard: California currently disregards part of earnings before calculating your grant. The rule used by counties has been updated in recent years; confirm the current disregard with your worker. As of 2024, California disregards the first portion of earnings and 50% of the rest; always verify the current thresholds with the county due to annual budget updates. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Child support pass‑through: If the other parent pays support, the state sends the first 100∗∗(onechild)or∗∗100** (one child) or **200 (two or more children) to you each month without reducing your CalWORKs cash aid. Source: California Child Support Services – Pass‑Through, accessed August 2025.
- Immediate Need: If approved, a small one‑time emergency payment is usually available within 24 hours while your full application is processed. Ask the worker to screen you for Immediate Need on day one. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Homeless Assistance: If eligible, you can get up to 16 days of motel support, and help with security deposit and move‑in costs to secure permanent housing (see details below). Source: CDSS CalWORKs Homeless Assistance.
Table: Key money pieces under CalWORKs and where to confirm
| Benefit | Typical parameters | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly cash aid (MAP) | Varies by family size and county region; updated in state budget cycles | CDSS CalWORKs (MAP charts) |
| Earned income disregard | First portion of earnings disregarded, plus 50% of the remainder (confirm current thresholds) | CDSS CalWORKs |
| Child support pass‑through | 100∗∗(onechild)/∗∗100** (one child) / **200 (two or more) per month | CA Child Support Pass‑Through |
| Immediate Need | Emergency payment within 24 hours if eligible | CDSS CalWORKs |
| Homeless Assistance | Motel up to 16 days; help with deposits/move‑in | CDSS Homeless Assistance |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If the grant looks too low, ask for a written budget breakdown (showing MBSAC, MAP, disregards, and countable income). If you still disagree, contact a legal aid office for a quick review: LawHelpCA – Public Benefits Help, and request a hearing: CDSS Hearings.
How to apply (fastest routes and what to expect)
Action first: Submit an application at BenefitsCal. If you can’t get online, go to your county office (find it here: CDSS County Directory).
- Online: BenefitsCal is the official portal for CalWORKs, CalFresh, and Medi‑Cal.
- In person: Go to your county’s human services office. You can ask for same‑day help and “Immediate Need.”
- By phone: Call your county to ask about phone or drop‑off options.
- Decision timeline: Counties generally must decide within 45 days. If you have a true emergency, ask for “Immediate Need” and Homeless Assistance on day one. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- EBT card: If approved, your cash aid is issued to an EBT card. Customer service for EBT is 877-328-9677. Source: California EBT.
Table: Application steps and realistic timelines
| Step | What to do | Timeline/Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| Apply | Submit online at BenefitsCal or in person at county | Same day |
| Ask for Immediate Need | Tell the intake worker you need emergency money | Within 24 hours of screening if eligible |
| Interview | Phone or in‑person interview; ask for language help if needed | Usually within 1–2 weeks |
| Submit verifications | Pay stubs, ID, rent, utilities, child support info | As soon as possible; missing verifications can delay |
| Decision | County issues approval/denial | Within 45 days |
| EBT deposit | If approved, your first payment posts after authorization | Often within 3–7 days after approval, then monthly |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you can’t reach anyone, go to the office early morning and check in at reception. If delays exceed 45 days without clear reason, request a hearing: CDSS Hearings. You can also contact your county’s ombuds or civil rights office: CDSS Civil Rights.
Documents you’ll need (bring these to speed things up)
Action first: Upload documents to your BenefitsCal account or bring copies to your county office right after you apply.
- Government‑issued ID (you and children if available)
- Social Security numbers (or proof you’ve applied)
- Proof of California residency (lease, utility bill, or mail)
- Proof of income (pay stubs, employer letter, unemployment, child support)
- Rent receipt/lease and recent utility bills
- Childcare costs (if any), school attendance (for school‑aged kids), immunization records for young children
- Proof of pregnancy (if applying pregnant‑only)
- Bank statements and vehicle registration (counties may still review for certain rules even where asset tests are relaxed)
- Any current court orders (custody, child support) and domestic violence documentation if you want good cause
Table: Quick document checklist
| Category | Examples |
|---|---|
| Identity | CA ID/driver’s license, consular ID, tribal ID |
| Residency | Lease, rent receipt, utility bill, official mail |
| Income | Last 30 days’ pay stubs, award letters (UI/SDI), employer letter |
| Housing | Lease, landlord letter, eviction/3‑day notice |
| Kids | Birth certificates, school enrollment/attendance, immunization card |
| Special | Pregnancy proof, DV safety plan or letter (optional), child support order |
| Other | Bank statements, car registration/insurance |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re missing a document, ask your worker for help getting it or for “collateral contact” (county calls a third party). Don’t let missing paperwork stall your “Immediate Need” request.
Work rules, exemptions, and sanctions (and how to avoid problems)
Action first: At orientation, ask your worker to write down your Welfare‑to‑Work (WTW) hours, activities, and supports you can get (child care, mileage/bus, books, tools).
- Standard hours: 20 hours/week if your youngest is under 6; 30 hours/week if 6 or older; 35 hours/week for two‑parent cases. Source: CDSS Welfare‑to‑Work.
- Good cause/exemptions: Domestic violence, disability, caring for a disabled household member, late pregnancy or newborn care, and other serious barriers can excuse or adjust requirements. Ask for good cause in writing. Source: CDSS DV Services.
- Supportive services: Child care (Stage One), transportation, books, uniforms, testing fees. Ask for these before starting any activity. Source: CDSS Child Care & Development.
- Sanctions: If you miss WTW without good cause, your portion can be cut. Before any sanction, ask for “conciliation” to fix the issue and keep your grant. Act fast if you get a notice—deadlines are short (typically 10–30 days depending on the notice). Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If child care isn’t ready, say so in writing; you can’t be required to do WTW without needed child care. If sanctioned, request conciliation right away and contact legal aid: LawHelpCA – Find Help.
Homeless Assistance (TSA and Move‑In Help)
Action first: Tell your worker you need CalWORKs Homeless Assistance the day you apply for CalWORKs (or any time you lose housing).
- Temporary Shelter Assistance (TSA): Pays for motel stays for up to 16 consecutive days. Many counties issue daily payments directly to the motel. Keep receipts. Source: CDSS CalWORKs Homeless Assistance.
- Permanent Housing Assistance: Can cover security deposit, last month’s rent, utility deposits, and sometimes back rent to stop an eviction. Amounts are tied to actual costs and state policy limits—ask your worker to show you the current limits for your county. Source: CDSS CalWORKs Homeless Assistance.
- Repeat use: There are limits on how often you can receive Homeless Assistance, with exceptions for domestic violence, natural disasters, or other good cause. Ask your worker about exemptions. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
Real‑world example: A mom in San Diego lost her apartment after hours were cut at work. She applied for CalWORKs on a Monday, asked for TSA that day, and the county issued a motel authorization for her and two kids for up to 16 days while they found a new place. The worker also approved a security deposit using Permanent Housing Assistance so she could sign a lease by day 12.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If a motel refuses the county method of payment, ask for a different motel or a same‑day alternate. If you’re turned away, ask for a supervisor and request the policy in writing. Call 2‑1‑1 for additional motel voucher programs: 211 California.
Child care while you work or go to training (Stage One)
Action first: Before starting any assigned activity, tell your worker which child care you plan to use and request Stage One child care authorization in writing.
- Stage One is guaranteed for eligible CalWORKs participants to support work or approved activities. Payments follow the state’s Regional Market Rate (varies by county and child age). Source: CDSS Child Care & Development.
- You can choose a licensed provider or an approved family/friend provider who meets rules. Ask for help completing provider paperwork.
- Keep attendance records and receipts to avoid payment delays.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your provider isn’t being paid, call your worker and the child care unit the same day. If you get stuck, ask for a supervisor and contact your local Resource & Referral agency (find via the California Child Care Resource & Referral Network, an established statewide nonprofit).
Reporting changes and keeping your case in good shape
Action first: Put important dates on your calendar—report required changes within 10 days to avoid overpayments. Source: See county rights and responsibilities; practice follows state rules at CDSS CalWORKs.
- Report: New income or job loss, address changes, household changes (a person moves in/out), child care changes.
- Keep copies of everything you submit.
- If you move counties, ask about “inter‑county transfer” to avoid gaps.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you get an overpayment notice and it looks wrong, request a hearing within the deadline on your notice (often 30–90 days depending on the action) and contact legal aid: LawHelpCA.
If your application is denied or delayed
Action first: Ask for a written notice that explains the reason and the rule used. Then, if you disagree, request a hearing here: CDSS State Hearings Division.
- Deadlines: File within the deadline shown on your notice (commonly 90 days for many actions; shorter for some issues). Keep your envelope and note the date.
- Aid Paid Pending: If your benefits were stopped or cut and you file quickly (by the date on your notice), ask for “aid paid pending” to keep aid while you appeal.
- Civil rights: If you believe discrimination or language access issues occurred, file a complaint: CDSS Civil Rights.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call a local legal aid office for advice the same day: LawHelpCA – Find Legal Help. You can also ask your county for an “informal conference” to fix errors without a hearing.
City‑specific FAQs (California)
Action first: If you live in one of these areas, use the local contacts listed.
- Los Angeles (LA County) — How do I get emergency help the same day?
- Call LA DPSS at 866-613-3777 or visit an office listed on LA DPSS. Ask for “Immediate Need” and “Homeless Assistance.” LA processes CalWORKs through BenefitsCal: BenefitsCal.
- San Diego County — What’s the fastest way to get a motel voucher through Homeless Assistance?
- Apply at BenefitsCal and call 866-262-9881 (San Diego HHSA) to flag your request. Ask to be screened for TSA the same day. Confirm what motels accept county payment. Source: San Diego HHSA.
- San Francisco — Rents are high; can CalWORKs really help with move‑in costs?
- Yes, Permanent Housing Assistance can help with deposit/last month’s rent and utility deposits up to program limits. Apply at BenefitsCal and call SF HSA at 415-557-5000 to discuss Homeless Assistance options. Source: SF HSA.
- Fresno County — My hours change week to week. How do I report income correctly?
- Submit all pay stubs promptly and note irregular hours. Ask your worker if “semi‑annual reporting” rules apply and how to avoid overpayments. For help, call Fresno DSS at 855-832-8082. Source: Fresno County DSS.
- Sacramento County — Where do I bring verifications?
- Upload to BenefitsCal, mail, or bring them to a DHA office. Call 916-874-3100 for locations and drop‑off hours. Ask for a receipt when you hand in documents. Source: Sacramento DHA.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use the CDSS County Office Finder to locate your closest service center, and ask for a supervisor if you hit a roadblock.
Real‑world examples (what success looks like—and where people get stuck)
Action first: When you apply, put your requests in writing (Immediate Need, Homeless Assistance, child care) and keep copies.
- Example A: Single mom in LA working 25 hours/week at minimum wage. The county applies the earned income disregard, counts part of her wages, and she qualifies for a reduced CalWORKs grant and Stage One child care so she can keep working. She requested Immediate Need on day one to cover groceries and gas while waiting for her first grant. Sources: CDSS CalWORKs, CDSS Child Care & Development.
- Example B: San Francisco mom with a 3‑year‑old facing eviction. She applies for CalWORKs and Homeless Assistance to stop the eviction with rent arrears and gets deposit help for a new unit when the landlord declines to keep her. She uses Stage One child care to start a short‑term training program tied to a job offer. Sources: CDSS CalWORKs Homeless Assistance, CDSS CalWORKs.
- Example C: Fresno parent with domestic violence history seeks good cause from child support cooperation and a WTW exemption while stabilizing safety and counseling. The county arranges alternative participation later. Source: CDSS DV Services.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If your worker says “we don’t do that,” ask for the policy (ACL/MPP section) in writing and request a supervisor. Contact legal aid: LawHelpCA.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not asking for “Immediate Need” on day one. If you have no money for food/rent/utilities, say it clearly. The county must screen you within 24 hours if you appear eligible. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Skipping child care paperwork. You shouldn’t be assigned to WTW without child care in place. Ask for Stage One and provider paperwork before you start.
- Missing verification deadlines. Late pay stubs or ID can delay approval. If you can’t get a document fast, ask the county to help and accept “collateral contact.”
- Not reporting income changes within 10 days, causing overpayments.
- Ignoring sanction notices. If you get a WTW noncompliance notice, request conciliation immediately—delays can cut your grant.
- Forgetting to ask for Homeless Assistance early. TSA is time‑limited (16 days) and moves fast—start the process right away.
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you realize you missed a step, tell your worker the same day. If a sanction hits, ask for conciliation and hearing rights. Get help: LawHelpCA.
Money details you’ll want to confirm with your county (numbers change)
Because California updates grant levels (MAP), needs standards (MBSAC), and earned income disregards in budget cycles, always confirm the current $ amounts:
- CalWORKs Maximum Aid Payment (MAP) chart for your family size and region: See “Grant Levels (MAP)” on CDSS CalWORKs.
- MBSAC (gross income test) chart: See “Income Limits (MBSAC)” on CDSS CalWORKs.
- Earned income disregard thresholds: Ask your county worker for the current rule and related ACL. Start here: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Child support pass‑through: 100∗∗foronechild,∗∗100** for one child, **200 for two or more. Source: California Child Support Services.
- Immediate Need: available within 24 hours if you qualify. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
Table: Where to find your exact current numbers
| What you need | Where to click |
|---|---|
| Current CalWORKs grant (MAP) | CDSS CalWORKs – Grant Levels |
| Income limit (MBSAC) | CDSS CalWORKs – Income Limits |
| Earned income disregard rules | CDSS CalWORKs overview and ask your worker for the latest ACL |
| Pass‑through amounts | California Child Support Services |
| Homeless Assistance scope | CDSS CalWORKs Homeless Assistance |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you cannot locate the charts, ask your worker to print them for you, or visit your county lobby. If you still can’t get them, email us at info@asinglemother.org and we’ll help you find the official chart.
Local organizations and help beyond CalWORKs
Action first: While your CalWORKs case is pending, line up food, rent, and legal help.
- 211 California: Dial 211 or visit 211 California for food banks, shelters, rent help, and local programs.
- Catholic Charities of California: Emergency assistance, case management across many counties. Find your local Catholic Charities.
- Salvation Army (California): Some locations provide rent help, utilities, and food. Find your local Salvation Army.
- St. Vincent de Paul Councils (varies by county): Rent/utility help, furniture, food. Search your county council.
- Legal Aid: Know your rights and get help with hearings. LawHelpCA is the State Bar‑recognized legal help directory.
- Domestic Violence: 24/7 National Hotline 800-799-7233 and California services via CDSS Domestic Violence.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask your county worker for a written list of “community resources” and call 2‑1‑1 to fill gaps.
Diverse communities
Action first: Tell your worker about any specific needs (language, disability, safety, veteran status, tribal affiliation). Counties must offer free interpreter services and reasonable accommodations. Source: CDSS Civil Rights – Language and Disability Access.
- LGBTQ+ single mothers: Ask for referrals to affirming counseling and employment services. Discrimination is not allowed in CalWORKs. If it happens, file a civil rights complaint: CDSS Civil Rights.
- Single mothers with disabilities or with a disabled child: Request reasonable accommodations for appointments, timelines, and WTW activities; ask for specialized assessments. You may qualify for exemptions from work hours. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Veteran single mothers: Contact your County Veterans Service Office (CVSO) for VA benefits and emergency help alongside CalWORKs. Start here: CalVet – Find Your CVSO. You can use both systems if eligible.
- Immigrant/refugee single moms: You may apply for your citizen or qualified‑immigrant children even if you are undocumented (child‑only CalWORKs). Ask about public charge rules for non‑cash benefits; CalWORKs is cash, but there are specific exceptions. Talk to a legal aid for immigration concerns: LawHelpCA. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Tribal‑specific resources: Many families in California may instead be eligible for Tribal TANF. Start here: CDSS – Tribal TANF to find the program serving your area (e.g., California Tribal TANF Partnership). You can also contact your tribal social services office.
- Rural single moms with limited access: Ask your worker for phone interviews, flexible verification options, and mailed EBT cards. If you lack transportation, ask for remote participation or mileage support. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Single fathers: CalWORKs is for families with minor children regardless of parent gender. Single dads can get the same aid, child care, and WTW support. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
- Language access: Counties must provide free interpreters and translated notices. If you didn’t get language help, file a complaint: CDSS Civil Rights.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Ask for a supervisor and the county’s ADA/LEP coordinator. You can also file a complaint with CDSS Civil Rights and get help from legal aid.
Resources by region (county contacts you can use now)
Action first: If your county isn’t listed, use the full CDSS County Office Directory.
Table: Quick county contacts (largest metros)
| County/City | Apply/Info | Phone |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | LA DPSS | 866-613-3777 |
| San Diego | San Diego HHSA | 866-262-9881 |
| San Francisco | San Francisco HSA | 415-557-5000 |
| Fresno | Fresno County DSS | 855-832-8082 |
| Sacramento | Sacramento DHA | 916-874-3100 |
What to do if this doesn’t work: Use CDSS County Office Finder to locate addresses and alternate numbers. For after‑hours needs, dial 211 or contact your city’s coordinated entry (for homelessness resources).
Side‑by‑side: CalWORKs, CalFresh, Medi‑Cal (what each pays for)
Action first: Apply for all three at once on BenefitsCal. One application can screen you for multiple programs.
| Program | What it covers | Money details | Where to confirm |
|---|---|---|---|
| CalWORKs (TANF) | Cash aid, WTW services, child care, Homeless Assistance | Monthly cash grant (MAP), Immediate Need within 24 hours if eligible | CDSS CalWORKs |
| CalFresh (SNAP) | Food benefits on EBT card | Amount based on USDA Thrifty Plan and income; separate from CalWORKs | CalFresh – CDSS |
| Medi‑Cal | Health coverage | No monthly premium for most low‑income families | Medi‑Cal – DHCS |
What to do if this doesn’t work: If you’re denied one program, you might still qualify for another. Review your notices and re‑apply with updated information if your situation changes.
What to do if CalWORKs isn’t right or you’re over the time limit
Action first: Ask about a child‑only “Safety Net” case if you’ve used 48 months of adult aid but your children still need help. Source: CDSS CalWORKs.
Other Plan B options:
- CalFresh for food: CalFresh – CDSS
- WIC for babies/children under 5: California WIC
- Unemployment Insurance (UI): EDD UI Online
- State Disability Insurance (SDI) / Paid Family Leave (PFL): EDD SDI/PFL
- Rental help (varies by city/county) and legal help for evictions: LawHelpCA – Housing
What to do if this doesn’t work: Call 211 and your city’s housing hotline for local emergencies; ask your county worker for referrals in writing.
Frequently used forms and tools
Action first: Ask your worker to print any form you need if you can’t access a printer.
- Apply/Manage benefits: BenefitsCal
- Find your county office: CDSS County Directory
- Request a state hearing: CDSS Hearings
- EBT help: 877-328-9677 — California EBT
- Child support and pass‑through: California Child Support Services
What to do if this doesn’t work: Visit your county lobby to use their phones and scanners at no cost.
Reality checks, tips, and warnings
- Timelines are real. If your case goes beyond 45 days with no decision, escalate (supervisor, ombuds, hearing request).
- Keep everything. Snap photos of documents you submit and keep uploaded copies in BenefitsCal.
- Don’t start a class or job activity before child care is approved on paper; you could miss out on payment.
- Be honest about safety. Good cause exists for domestic violence and other issues—use it.
- Watch your EBT card. Scams exist. Never share your PIN. If stolen, report right away to 877-328-9677. Source: California EBT.
What to do if this doesn’t work: Get help from legal aid, your county supervisor, and the state hearings process. Document every call (date/time/person).
About This Guide
Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team
This guide uses official sources from California Department of Social Services (CDSS), California Child Support Services, DHCS (Medi‑Cal), USDA (SNAP/CalFresh), HUD‑related resources, and established nonprofits like 211 California and LawHelpCA.
This guide is produced based on our Editorial Standards using only official sources, regularly updated and monitored, but not affiliated with any government agency and not a substitute for official agency guidance. Individual eligibility outcomes cannot be guaranteed.
Last verified August 2025, next review April 2026.
Please note that despite our careful verification process, errors may still occur — email info@asinglemother.org with corrections and we respond within 48 hours.
Disclaimer
Program rules and dollar amounts change with new budgets and policy updates. Always confirm the latest numbers and eligibility on official sites and with your county worker. Use the links in this guide for the most current information.
Sources (accessed August 2025)
- CalWORKs (TANF) program overview and policies: California Department of Social Services – CalWORKs
- County office directory (apply in person/find your county): CDSS – County Offices
- BenefitsCal (apply/manage benefits): BenefitsCal
- Welfare‑to‑Work rules and services: CDSS – CalWORKs (WTW)
- Homeless Assistance (TSA and move‑in help): CDSS – CalWORKs Homeless Assistance
- Child support pass‑through amounts (100/100/200): California Child Support Services – Pass‑Through
- EBT information and customer service (877-328-9677): CDSS – EBT
- CalFresh (SNAP in California): CDSS – CalFresh
- Medi‑Cal: DHCS – Medi‑Cal
- Domestic Violence services and good cause: CDSS – Domestic Violence Services
- Legal help directory: LawHelpCA
- 211 statewide referral line: 211 California
- Editorial standards for this guide: ASingleMother.org – Editorial Policy
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- 🛡️ Domestic Violence Resources & Safety
- 💻 Digital Literacy & Technology Assistance
- 🤱 Free Breast Pumps & Maternity Support
- 📈 Credit Repair & Financial Recovery
