Can single adults without children qualify for CalWORKs Cash Aid?

CalWORKs is specifically for families with children, so yes - if you don't have kids, you can't get Cash Aid through CalWORKs. But there are other programs for adults without children! You might qualify for General Assistance/General Relief (GA/GR) through your county. It's usually less money than CalWORKs but it's designed for single adults or couples without children. You should apply through BenefitsCal and select GA/GR instead of CalWORKs.

my freind got cash aid n she didnt have kids with her cuz they were staying with grandma but she was still leagally the mom so she qualified

I was in the same boat last year. No kids, needed help badly. Called the county for DAYS trying to reach someone about my options. Kept getting disconnected or waiting for hours. Finally I used Claimyr (claimyr.com) to get through to a real person at the benefits office. They have this service where they call and wait on hold for you then connect you when a worker answers. Saved me so much frustration! There's a video showing how it works: https://youtu.be/jzISHxCPLwE The worker told me exactly what the previous comment mentioned - CalWORKs is only for families with kids, but I qualified for General Assistance instead. It's not much money but it helped me get through a rough patch.

Just to add some more details that might help: 1. CalWORKs is California's TANF program (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families) which is specifically designed for households with children under 18 2. General Assistance/Relief is administered by each county, so the benefit amount varies depending on where you live 3. If you have a disability that prevents you from working, you might qualify for SSI/SSDI instead 4. Always apply for CalFresh (food stamps) too, as adults without children can definitely qualify for that program 5. Some counties have housing support programs that aren't tied to having children

THE WHOLE SYSTEM IS DESIGNED TO KEEP POOR PEOPLE POOR!!! Why should only people with kids get decent benefits?? Everyone needs help sometimes! My rent is $2300 and GA pays $336 in my county. HOW DOES THAT HELP ANYONE???

@profile4 - Yes, most GA programs do have work requirements similar to CalWORKs' Welfare to Work program, but they vary by county. Some counties have exemptions for people with medical conditions or those who are actively looking for work. You'll need to check with your specific county for their rules. If you're having trouble connecting with someone at the county office, the Claimyr service mentioned above can help you get through faster.

Thank u guys for all the answers. I'm gonna try applying for GA and CalFresh. Wish they made it easier for single ppl but something is better than nothing I guess.

Also wanted to mention that if you're looking for work, some counties have additional job training programs that come with small stipends or transportation assistance. And don't forget about utility assistance programs like LIHEAP - they can help with gas/electric bills even if you're not getting cash aid. Every little bit helps when you're trying to make ends meet. The 211 helpline (dial 2-1-1) can connect you with local resources too.