EHSD’s public lobbies are now open.
Individuals who want to apply for General Assistance can go to BenefitsCal.com to submit an application.
Individuals may also apply for General Assistance by calling (866) 663-3225. Staff will conduct a phone interview to determine eligibility for GA.
Every county in California is required to provide relief and support to all residents who are not supported by their own means, by friends or relatives, by other public funds, or by other assistance programs. In Contra Costa County, General Assistance is the program that provides temporary assistance to individuals who are not eligible for federal or state-funded cash assistance.
Each county’s program is established by its own Board of Supervisors. Its policies and regulations are subject to change by the Board of Supervisors depending upon the funds available to the program.
Purpose of the General Assistance Program
General Assistance is a short-term, employment-focused program, for unemployed persons with no other means of support. General Assistance provides continued aid for disabled or unemployable persons while applying for and securing a continuing source of support, such as Supplemental Security Income/State Supplemental Payment (SSI/SSP).
Any resident of Contra Costa County may be eligible for General Assistance and proof of residence may be required. You must have lived in the county for at least 15 days and be a legal permanent resident or US Citizen. Employable persons can receive the General Assistance payments for a maximum of 90-days in a twelve-month period. Disabled individuals with medical verification can receive General Assistance continuously while they are disabled.
Rights and Responsibilities Of the General Assistance (GA) Program
Rights & Responsibilities Video
Proof Of GA Video Attendance
Prueba Que Asistió Al Video De GA
It is required as part of the intake process for GA applicants to view the “Rights and Responsibilities” of the GA program.
To view this video online, please click on the GA Rights and Responsibilities link on this page. Once you have watched the video, please sign and date the bottom of the proof of GA attendence form (Eng | Esp), and return and/or review it with your GA worker at the time of your intake appointment.