The only way to know for sure if you are eligible for the CalWORKs program is to apply at our application center, in person.

There are some basic eligibility requirements for a child and parent or caretaker relative listed below. If these requirements are met, cash benefits may be available to the family for the care of a needy child: 

Deprivation - The child must be deprived of parental support or care because at least one parent is:

• Deceased
• Physically or mentally incapacitated
• Not working or working less than 100 hours per month
• Continually absent from the home

Age - Children may be eligible for CalWORKs until their 18th birthday or are 18 years old and in high school or vocational school full time and are expected to complete school before their 19th birthday.

Property - The property of a family must be under the following limits:

• Families without elderly* members may have up to $2,000.00 combined personal and real property.
• Families with elderly* members may have $3,000.00 combined personal and real property, and furniture, clothing, and appliances are exempt.
• The family home is exempt as long as the family lives in the home.
• The value of one automobile up to $4,650.00 is exempt.

Residency - Families who make their residence in California and who intend to continue to live in California may be eligible.

• There is no length of time requirements for residency in the CalWORKs program.
• Family members must be legal residents of the United States.