Benefits in California

Monthly cash assistance for low-income families with children in California. Helps with rent, utilities, and basic needs.

Monthly cash aid and work support for very low-income families with children.

Pay for daycare, preschool, or after-school care in California. Federal + state subsidy for working/training parents.

Monthly cash payments for disabled, blind, or elderly people with very limited income & resources.

Monthly income for people who can't work due to disability and have enough work credits.

Up to $7,395/year for undergraduate students with financial need. Does not need to be repaid.

Free early childhood education, health & nutrition for low-income kids ages 0-5.

CA unemployment insurance through the Employment Development Department.

Weekly payments to workers who lost their job through no fault of their own.

California's version of SNAP — monthly food benefits via EBT card.

California WIC — free healthy food, formula, breastfeeding support, and nutrition counseling for pregnant women, new moms, and kids under 5.

Monthly food benefits for low-income households to buy groceries.

Nutrition, food, and healthcare referrals for pregnant/postpartum women and children under 5.

Free or reduced-price breakfast & lunch at school for kids in low-income families.

California's Medicaid — free/low-cost health coverage including for undocumented adults.

Free or low-cost health coverage for eligible adults, children, pregnant women, elderly, and people with disabilities.

Federal health insurance for people 65+ and certain younger people with disabilities.

Low-cost health coverage for kids in families who earn too much for Medicaid but can't afford private insurance.

Help paying heating/cooling bills in California. Prevents utility shutoffs, also covers emergency repairs and weatherization.

Help paying heating/cooling bills and weatherization for low-income households.

Rental assistance vouchers to help low-income families afford housing in the private market.

Monthly discount ($9.25) on phone or internet service for qualifying low-income consumers.

California EITC (CalEITC) — up to $3,529 + Young Child Tax Credit. Get this refund on top of your federal EITC when you file your California state taxes.

Refundable tax credit up to $7,830 for low-to-moderate income working individuals and families.

Comprehensive benefits for veterans: disability comp, pension, healthcare, education (GI Bill), home loans.