The California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids program, commonly known as CalWORKs, is designed to provide financial and social assistance to low-income families in California. This program aims to break the cycle of poverty by offering essential resources and opportunities to help families achieve economic stability.
CalWORKs operates in all 58 counties of California and is managed by the state’s Department of Social Services. Eligible families can receive cash assistance to cover basic needs such as housing, food, utilities, clothing, and medical care. Immediate assistance may also be available for families facing urgent financial difficulties.
How CalWORKs Benefits Work
CalWORKs provides monthly cash assistance through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which is also used for the CalFresh Program. This card functions like a debit card and can be used to purchase approved items at participating stores.
What Expenses Can CalWORKs Cover?
The program helps families afford:
- Rent and housing costs
- Food and groceries
- Utility bills (electricity, gas, water)
- Clothing for children and adults
- Medical care and health-related expenses
Who Can Apply for CalWORKs?
CalWORKs is available to low-income families with at least one child in the household. Eligibility is determined by income, residency, and financial need. Applicants must meet certain requirements, including work participation, unless they qualify for an exemption.
CalWORKs Payment Schedule
CalWORKs benefits are distributed between the 1st and 10th of each month. The exact date a recipient receives their benefits depends on the last digit of their county case number.
For example, if a case number ends in 5, benefits will be available on the 5th of the month. This system ensures an orderly distribution of funds to all eligible recipients.
| Payment Date | Case Number Ends In |
|---|---|
| March 1 | 1 |
| March 2 | 2 |
| March 3 | 3 |
| March 4 | 4 |
| March 5 | 5 |
| March 6 | 6 |
| March 7 | 7 |
| March 8 | 8 |
| March 9 | 9 |
| March 10 | 0 |
Most payments are deposited at midnight on the assigned date. If benefits are not available as expected, recipients should check their EBT balance and contact their county’s social services office for assistance.
How to Check
If you want to verify the status of your benefits, you can:
- Check Your EBT Balance Online – Log in to your EBT account on the California Department of Social Services website.
- Use the EBT Customer Service Phone Number – Call the number on the back of your EBT card to get balance information.
- Look at Your Last Purchase Receipt – If you used your EBT card recently, your remaining balance should be printed on the receipt.
Payment Is Delayed
If your CalWORKs benefits are not available on the expected date:
- Wait a Few Hours – Sometimes, payments may take longer to process.
- Check Your EBT Balance – Log in online or call customer service to confirm your payment status.
- Contact Your County Office – If your benefits are missing or incorrect, reach out to your county’s social services department for help.
By knowing the CalWORKs payment schedule and knowing how to manage your benefits, you can ensure financial stability for your family.
FAQs
When will I receive my CalWORKs benefits?
Payments are issued between the 1st and 10th of each month, based on your case number.
How do I check my CalWORKs balance?
You can check online, call the EBT customer service number, or check a recent receipt.
Can I use CalWORKs benefits to pay rent?
Yes, CalWORKs funds can be used for rent, food, utilities, and other essentials.
What should I do if my payment is late?
Wait a few hours, check your balance, and contact your county office if needed.
Who qualifies for CalWORKs benefits?
Low-income families with at least one child in the household may be eligible.
