◈ Homepage — https://www.cdss.ca.gov/Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services   Select Language Abkhaz Acehnese Acholi Afar Afrikaans Albanian Alur Amharic Arabic Armenian Assamese Avar Awadhi Aymara Azerbaijani Balinese Baluchi Bambara Baoulé Bashkir Basque Batak Karo Batak Simalungun Batak Toba Belarusian Bemba Bengali Betawi Bhojpuri Bikol Bosnian Breton Bulgarian Buryat Cantonese Catalan Cebuano Chamorro Chechen Chichewa Chinese (Simplified) Chinese (Traditional) Chuukese Chuvash Corsican Crimean Tatar (Cyrillic) Crimean Tatar (Latin) Croatian Czech Danish Dari Dhivehi Dinka Dogri Dombe Dutch Dyula Dzongkha Esperanto Estonian Ewe Faroese Fijian Filipino Finnish Fon French French (Canada) Frisian Friulian Fulani Ga Galician Georgian German Greek Guarani Gujarati Haitian Creole Hakha Chin Hausa Hawaiian Hebrew Hiligaynon Hindi Hmong Hungarian Hunsrik Iban Icelandic Igbo Ilocano Indonesian Inuktut (Latin) Inuktut (Syllabics) Irish Italian Jamaican Patois Japanese Javanese Jingpo Kalaallisut Kannada Kanuri Kapampangan Kazakh Khasi Khmer Kiga Kikongo Kinyarwanda Kituba Kokborok Komi Konkani Korean Krio Kurdish (Kurmanji) Kurdish (Sorani) Kyrgyz Lao Latgalian Latin Latvian Ligurian Limburgish Lingala Lithuanian Lombard Luganda Luo Luxembourgish Macedonian Madurese Maithili Makassar Malagasy Malay Malay (Jawi) Malayalam Maltese Mam Manx Maori Marathi Marshallese Marwadi Mauritian Creole Meadow Mari Meiteilon (Manipuri) Minang Mizo Mongolian Myanmar (Burmese) Nahuatl (Eastern Huasteca) Ndau Ndebele (South) Nepalbhasa (Newari) Nepali NKo Norwegian Nuer Occitan Odia (Oriya) Oromo Ossetian Pangasinan Papiamento Pashto Persian Polish Portuguese (Brazil) Portuguese (Portugal) Punjabi (Gurmukhi) Punjabi (Shahmukhi) Quechua Qʼeqchiʼ Romani Romanian Rundi Russian Sami (North) Samoan Sango Sanskrit Santali (Latin) Santali (Ol Chiki) Scots Gaelic Sepedi Serbian Sesotho Seychellois Creole Shan Shona Sicilian Silesian Sindhi Sinhala Slovak Slovenian Somali Spanish Sundanese Susu Swahili Swati Swedish Tahitian Tajik Tamazight Tamazight (Tifinagh) Tamil Tatar Telugu Tetum Thai Tibetan Tigrinya Tiv Tok Pisin Tongan Tshiluba Tsonga Tswana Tulu Tumbuka Turkish Turkmen Tuvan Twi Udmurt Ukrainian Urdu Uyghur Uzbek Venda Venetian Vietnamese Waray Welsh Wolof Xhosa Yakut Yiddish Yoruba Yucatec Maya Zapotec Zulu Powered by Translate Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Find a County Office Apply for Cash Aid Apply for Food & Nutrition In-Home Supportive Services Find Licensed Care Report Abuse Request Hearing Report Fraud Headlines and Hot Topics H.R. 1 to Result in Changes to CalFresh, Medi-Cal A new federal law, H.R. 1, will reduce who is eligible for the CalFresh food program and will cut the amount of CalFresh benefits that some people receive. Your county will let you know if and when these changes affect you. Get more information in English and Spanish regarding recent changes and other changes that will take effect on June 1, 2026. For information on changes to Medi-Cal, visit the Department of Health Care Services website. CDSS Roadmap for Facility Licensing The Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) has step-by-step resources to guide applicants through the licensing process. Help is available for Adult and Senior Care Program [PDF], Child Care Program, Children’s Residential Program [PDF], and Home Care Services applicants. Access a general license overview guide on the CCLD webpage [PDF]. Protect Your EBT Benefits Californians are encouraged to take steps to prevent Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) theft. The California Department of Social Services created videos with security tips for EBT cardholders (English, Spanish). If you think your benefits may have been stolen, immediately call the customer service telephone number on the back of your EBT card, (877) 328-9677, or contact your county social services agency. A mobile app and web-based portal called ebtEDGE provides EBT cardholders in California with tools to protect their CalFresh and CalWORKs benefits. The free app is available for download in the Apple App store and Google Play store. Web-based access is also available. The Department offers videos about the app (English, Spanish). State Offers Tips to Communities Impacted by Federal Immigration Raids California is offering support for communities experiencing federal immigration raids, sharing new “know your rights” resources with the community. The Governor’s Office has released new fact sheets in English and Spanish. SUN Bucks Summer Food Program for Kids SUN Bucks provides families in California with $120 for each eligible child to help buy groceries during the summer months. Most eligible children receive SUN Bucks automatically each year. Families who do not receive benefits automatically can apply through their child’s school or school administrator’s office. Families can submit applications for summer 2026 until August 31, 2026. For more information on SUN Bucks, visit the SUN Bucks webpage. CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Program Returns The CalFresh Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project has returned. Eligible CalFresh households will once again receive a dollar-for-dollar match up to $60 per month when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at participating retailers and farmers’ markets. All current and former CalFresh households with an active EBT food balance who shop at participating retailers and farmers’ markets are eligible. A total of 92 retail locations, mostly in Southern California, are participating in the pilot. More information and participating locations.  Free Access to State Parks and Beaches for CalWORKs and Tribal TANF Recipients California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) and Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients can enjoy a free Golden Bear Pass to access more than 200 California state parks and beaches. This pass provides free vehicle day-use access and will be valid until December 31 of the year in which the pass was issued. Learn more: https://cdss.ca.gov/goldenbearpass What to Know About Public Charge The U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final public charge rule that went into effect December 23, 2022, that allows immigrants and their loved ones across California to seek and accept medical care, food assistance, and public housing without fear or confusion about public charge consequences. Under the current rule, participation in CalFresh, public housing, or Medi-Cal (except for long-term care), is not be considered as part of the public charge determination. Information about the current policy is available on this California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) webpage. In 2025, the Trump administration proposed a new rule to rescind the 2022 public charge regulation, but this proposal is not yet in effect. The CalHHS, along with its departments, submitted a formal comment letter opposing the proposed rule and outlining the harmful impacts it would have on the health and well-being of Californians. We encourage individuals and their families to consult an immigration attorney and understand eligibility requirements for each program, to understand the benefits and any potential risk of enrolling in public benefits programs. Individuals in California seeking assistance are encouraged to consult one of many State-funded organizations that provide legal services to immigrants. Here is a list of immigration services providers funded by CDSS. Taking Steps to Better Serve Foster Youth California has made transformative changes to the way the State cares for children and youth in the foster care system. The Continuum of Care Reform (CCR) was founded upon the collective belief among stakeholders involved in California’s child welfare system that all children served by the foster care system need, deserve, and have an ability to be part of a loving family, and not to grow up in a congregate setting. When CCR implementation began in 2017, an interim foster care rate structure was created. However, statute required a payment structure by January 1, 2025. To this end, the Department recently unveiled a new, permanent rate structure, which was informed by feedback from current and former foster youth, county placing agencies, Tribes, and other interested parties. California is restructuring rates so that they are based on the needs of each child, not placement type. By restructuring the system this way, California can help address historical racial inequities and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and trauma. The new rates will take effect beginning July 1, 2027. Read additional information and a detailed summary on the new rate structure. For more information about programs, projects, and resources for foster youth and foster youth caregivers, visit the CDSS foster care webpage. Also access an issue brief on the efforts underway in California to better meet the needs of individual foster youth and improve California’s foster care system. Progress Report: California’s Master Plan for Early Learning and Care California has made significant progress in implementing the Master Plan for Early Learning and Care, which provided a road map for building a stronger, more equitable early learning and child care system. Access a progress report. Community Care Expansion Grants Expand Housing Nearly $570 million in Community Care Expansion (CCE) program grants have been awarded to new housing projects across the state. CCE projects – many of which are already underway – will create new housing at licensed adult and senior care residences, permanent supportive housing sites, and other housing options, including a first-of-its-kind housing project on Tribal lands for elders. These housing options will offer an array of services to support independent living for older adults and adults with disabilities who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Additional information on CCE program grantees and awards is available on the CCE data dashboard. Access a video about the project. Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) You may qualify for cash assistance if you are an immigrant living in California and are: 65 years or older, or blind, or disabled CAPI is a program that is based on meeting certain immigration, income, and resource requirements. Please visit the CAPI program website for more information and how to apply! IHSS Program Celebrates Over 50 Years of Supporting Californians Since its inception more than 50 years ago, the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program has been enabling California residents to live independently and safely in their own homes, avoiding institutionalization. To learn more about the IHSS program, please visit the IHSS webpage or contact your local county IHSS office. Access a video. Adult Protective Services Hotline If you or someone you know needs protection from abuse and neglect, call the statewide Adult Protective Services hotline: (833) 401-0832. Individuals can enter their 5-digit ZIP code to be connected to their county Adult Protective Services staff, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Foster Care Ombudsperson Hotline If you are concerned about the care, placement, services, or rights of children in foster care, call the Foster Care Ombudsperson hotline: (877) 846-1602. Service is available Monday through Friday, excluding holidays, from 8 am to 5 pm. CalWORKs Housing Support Program Celebrates 10 Years Since its establishment 10 years ago, the CalWORKs Housing Support Program has offered housing assistance and comprehensive supportive services to families in receipt of CalWORKs who are experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness. Learn more about the program and access a related newsletter. CDSS Partners with Universities to Strengthen Child Welfare Workforce The University of California, Davis, is spearheading curriculum development and connection with child welfare workforce practice, while the University of California, Los Angeles is leading the evaluation of training resources for the California Workforce Innovation, Support, and Education program. The CDSS is partnering with San Jose State University to promote training and stipends for social work education in exchange for employment in Adult Protective Services after graduation. The Academy for Professional Excellence, a project by San Diego State University College of Health and Human Services’ School of Social Work, was awarded a $4.5 million, three-year contract to serve as the statewide administrator for California Child Welfare Training. Highlight Disaster Assistance CDSS State Plans Program and Legislative Reports Budget Information How Do I? Find a Food Bank Get Help Paying for Child Care Check the Home Care Aide Registry Using my EBT card Information about Background Checks Become a Resource Family California Governor Gavin Newsom CHHS Secretary Kim Johnson CDSS Director Jennifer Troia About CDSS California Department of Social Services 744 P Street Sacramento, CA 95814 For public assistance case issues, inquiries, or complaints, e-mail our Public Inquiry and Response Unit at [email protected]. To sign up for direct outreach from CDSS visit our Statewide Outreach page to learn more. For Out of State Inquiries please use the following list to reach the appropriate county. Work with Us: Work with a Purpose Media Center Frequently Asked Questions Submit a Public Records Request Stakeholder Meetings Service of Process Visit our Facebook page (opens in new tab) Visit our Instagram page (opens in new tab) Visit our Twitter page (opens in new tab) Visit our LinkedIn page (opens in new tab) Visit our YouTube channel (opens in new tab) Work With a Purpose The California Department of Social Services supports programs which serve more than eight million people across our state. This work, accomplished everyday, provides stability, opportunity and promotes wellness in communities throughout California. Come join our team to experience what it is like to enjoy 'Work With a Purpose'. Back to Top  Accessibility  Accessibility Certification  Conditions of Use  Contact Us  Get Free Reader  Notice on Collection  Privacy Policy  Copyright © 2026 State of California ◈ Interior Pages — 36 pages crawledebtEDGE Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs EBT ebtEDGE ebtEDGE – Protect and Manage Your CA EBT Benefits What is ebtEDGE? EBT (electronic benefits transfer) Cardholders can now manage their CalFresh and/or CalWORKs benefits using the ebtEDGE Mobile and Web-based Application . Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (FIS), which manages the EBT system for the California Department of Social Services (CDSS), has released a mobile app through which cardholders can: Biometrics like Touch ID or Facial Recognition to login Reset their PIN View benefit schedule View last 365 days of transactions Order EBT card replacements Connect Multiple EBT Accounts Freeze card and Unfreeze card functionality Block out of State Transactions Block Internet Transactions How to get started on ebtEDGE To register or log into the applications, cardholders will need their EBT card number. On the mobile application, after successfully logging in the first time, cardholders can immediately choose to set up Touch ID or Facial Recognition if their mobile device supports it, or to do so at a later time. Scan the QR codes below from a mobile device to download ebtEDGE today. Apple App Store Google Play Store You can also visit the Apple App Store (iOS) or Google Play Store (Android) and search for ‘ebtEDGE’. What is ‘ebtEDGE NEW!’? EBT cardholders should be aware that FIS has launched a new version of the ebtEDGE Mobile Application. The new application is listed as ebtEDGE NEW! on both the Apple App Store and Google Play Store . ebtEDGE NEW! is not a fraudulent app, and while available for download, it is not yet supported in California. Cardholders who attempt to use ebtEDGE NEW! will not be able to view details or access information related to their food or cash benefits. Non-State-Supported Third-Party Applications Non-State-Supported Third-Party Applications PROTECT YOUR EBT BENEFITS – Use the Official ebtEDGE Mobile App The CDSS does not endorse or recommend any third-party apps for EBT. Only use the official, state-supported ebtEDGE mobile app, which is free to use. California will never charge EBT cardholders to use the ebtEDGE Mobile application. Keep your benefits and personal information secure by only using the official, state-supported mobile application. Why Third-Party Apps Are Risky: Your benefits and personal info could be stolen. Entering your EBT information into an unverified app can expose you to phishing, fraud, and identity theft. Stolen benefits may not be eligible for replacement. Your data may be shared. Third-party apps may collect and share personal data for marketing or other purposes. CDSS and your local county office can’t help if things go wrong. We may not be able to assist with issues caused by third-party apps. No security guarantees. Third-party apps may lack proper safeguards. Stay safe – only use the official ebtEDGE mobile app. Contact Us CDSS Automation and Innovation Bureau 744 P Street MS 8-5-45 Sacramento, CA 95814 [email protected] For Other Public Assistance issues, contact: CDSS Public Inquiry and Response [email protected] (916) 651-8848 Quick Links ebtEDGE Login Instructions ebtEDGE New User Registration ebtEDGE Login EBT Client Website/View My Account BenefitsCal Log In Keep Your EBT Cards & Benefits Safe About EBT Online Purchasing Forms & Brochures Where Can I Use My EBT Card ebtEDGE Informational Video - English ebtEDGE Informational Video - Spanish Related Agencies CalFresh CalWORKS CDSS Fraud Bureau List of County Human Service Agencies Report Fraud: [email protected] Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   California Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs EBT California Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project CalFresh Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project AB 1811, Chapter 35, (2018), added Welfare and Institutions Code 10072.3 and created the California Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Project. The goal of the pilot project was to develop and refine a scalable model for increasing the purchase and consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables by delivering supplemental benefits to CalFresh recipients in a way that could be easily adopted by USDA FNS (Food and Nutrition Service) authorized retailers of various types, sizes, and locations in the future. The California Department of Social Services EBT, in partnership with CalFresh, the Office of Technology and Solutions Integration (OSI), and the California Department of Food & Agriculture (CDFA) awarded three grants to non-profit organizations to meet this goal. CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Project (CF&V) Update As part of its 2025-26 Budget, the State of California has provided dedicated funding to support the relaunch of the CF&V EBT Pilot Project. Additional program details are available in the following All County Welfare Directors Letter (ACWDL), dated November 20, 2025 Participating Retailers and Farmers Markets: Pilot Grantee Grocery Partner or Farmers’ Market Impacted County Fullwell Arteaga’s Food Center 204 Willow St, San Jose, CA 95110 6906 Automall Pkwy, Gilroy, CA 95020 1003 Lincoln Ave, San Jose, CA 95125 2620 Alum Rock Ave, San Jose, CA 95116 Santa Clara Fullwell Santa Fe Foods 860 White Rd, San Jose, CA 95127 7356 Thornton Ave, Newark, CA 94560 1017 N Main St, Salinas, CA 93906 Santa Clara Alameda Monterey Fullwell Harvest Market 171 Boatyard Dr, Fort Bragg, CA 95437 10501 Lansing St, Mendocino, CA 95460 Mendocino Ecology Center LA River Farmers’ Market (Food Access Los Angeles) 1245 N Spring St., Los Angeles CA 90012 Los Angeles UC San Diego Center for Community Health at the Altman Clinical and Translational Research Institute at the UCSD Mothers Nutritional Center All 82 locations Los Angeles Orange Riverside San Bernardino San Diego Imperial Frequently Asked Questions: What is happening? The CalFresh Fruit & Vegetable (CF&V) EBT Pilot Project has started. Beginning November 17, 2025, eligible CalFresh households will once again receive a dollar-for-dollar match up to $60 per month when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at participating retailers and farmers’ markets. What is changing? Eligible participants can once again earn CF&V incentive dollars. The incentive dollars will automatically be added to your EBT account when you use your CalFresh benefits to buy eligible fresh fruits and vegetables at participating locations. Households do not need to apply; incentives will be added at the time of purchase. Why is the pilot restarting? The 2025–26 State Budget included dedicated funding to relaunch the CF&V Pilot Project. This allows new and former CF&V participants to extend their benefits to access healthy fruit and vegetables with their CalFresh EBT card. Who is eligible? All current and former CalFresh households with an active EBT food balance who shop at participating retailers and farmers’ markets are eligible. Where can I use the incentive? While the incentive can only be earned at approved grocery stores and farmers’ markets participating in the pilot, once earned they can be used at any retailer that accepts CalFresh EBT cards. How much can I receive? You can receive a dollar-for-dollar match up to $60 per month when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables. Do I need to sign up or complete any forms? No. Incentives will be issued automatically when you use your CalFresh benefits to buy eligible produce at participating locations. What happens if I do not spend earned benefits? Once earned, incentive benefits are yours to keep. You do not have to spend down your incentives to receive additional incentives the following month. Your CalFresh benefits, including CF&V incentive benefits, only expire if you do not make an EBT food purchase for 270 days. Once they expire, you cannot get them back. Does restarting the CF&V Pilot affect my regular CalFresh benefits? No. Your regular CalFresh benefits will remain the same. The CF&V incentive is a temporary, additional benefit and is not considered income for any public assistance program, including cash aid. Contact Us CDSS EBT Automation & Innovation Bureau 744 P Street MS 8-5-45 Sacramento, CA 95814 [email protected] For Other Public Assistance issues, contact: CDSS Public Inquiry and Response [email protected] (916) 651-8848 Quick Links CalFresh Program and Legislative Reports Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   Benefits & Services Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Benefits & Services Benefits and Services Cash Aid Cash Programs for low income individuals and families - Including refugees, immigrants, survivors of human trafficking, domestic violence, and other serious crimes; and disaster victims. Food & Nutrition Programs that enhance your food budget and nutrition Child Services Services to help protect children and assist families Adult Services Care and assistance programs for adults Foster Parents, Youth and Families Information for foster parents, foster youth and families involved with child welfare services Adoption Services Adoption, finding siblings and parents, adoption services Hearings and Appeals How to file a request for a hearing or appeal a decision More Services Refugees, immigrants, trafficking victims, disaster victims, housing Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Benefits & Services Cash Assistance CAPI Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) CAPI is a 100 percent state-funded program designed to provide monthly cash benefits to aged, blind, or disabled non-citizens who are ineligible for SSI/SSP solely due to their immigration status. The Welfare Reform Act of 1996 (P.L. 104-193) eliminated Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP) eligibility for most non-citizens. As a result, most immigrants who were not receiving SSI/SSP in August 1996 are no longer eligible for SSI/SSP. To be eligible for CAPI you must: Be ineligible for SSI/SSP solely due to immigration status, Be 65 years old or older, blind, or disabled, Be a resident of California, Meet certain income and resource requirements, and Be a non-citizen and meet the immigration status criteria (See Manual of Policies and Procedures (MPP) Section 49.020 “Immigration Status ”) State regulations governing CAPI are found in Manual of Policies and Procedures, Division 49 . How CAPI Works You can complete the CAPI application ( SOC 814 ) by calling your local county social services office. You may also complete the application and deliver it to your local county social services office in person, by mail, fax, or email. A county eligibility worker will be assigned to your case, and you may be asked to provide additional information including (but not limited to) immigration documents, a rental agreement, and bank statements. You have the right to ask for extra help with completing your application or with any other matter related to your CAPI case. If you are not sure what kind of help is available, just ask your county eligibility worker. You will be notified by mail if your CAPI application has been approved or denied, or if more information is needed for the county to make an eligibility determination. CAPI benefit amounts vary depending on your marital status, living arrangement, and income. CAPI payment standards are equivalent to the payment standards for SSI/SSP. If approved, you will be asked to complete a redetermination of your CAPI benefits every 12 months or if any changes occur such as if you move, your income changes, or if new people join your household. It is very important to report all changes to your local county social services office within 10 days. If you disagree with the county’s decision regarding your eligibility for CAPI or the benefit amount, you will be provided with instructions on how to file an appeal. How to Apply: You may apply by completing an application (SOC 814) in person, by phone, email, fax, or mail at your county social services agency . If you wish to find out more about CAPI, please contact your county social services agency. In addition to English, the CAPI application ( SOC 814 ) is also available in the following languages: Spanish , Armenian and Chinese . Golden State Grant (GSG) Payments Recent California legislation authorized a one-time payment of $600 to CAPI recipients to provide relief from hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Payments were automatically mailed out in 2021. For additional information on the GSG please see the following link: GSG for SSI/SSP and CAPI Recipients Webpage CAPI Applications SOC 814 Application – English SOC 814 Application – Spanish SOC 814 Application - Armenian SOC 814 Application - Chinese Information and Resources For more information and resources visit the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants website . This resource is designed to assist county eligibility workers and other partners who provide services to the public. Want to join us and work for a purpose? CDSS is hiring! Quick Links Adult Protective Services Assistance Dog Special Allowance Blind Services CalFresh Deaf Access Program Housing & Homelessness Immigration Services In Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Medi-Cal Public Charge Refugee Programs Bureau Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP) Your Rights Under California Welfare Programs United States Citizenship and Immigration Services Victims of Human Trafficking Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   Contact Us Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Contact Us Contact Us We welcome your comments, suggestions and questions. You can contact the Department in several ways. Telephone (916) 651-8848 Email [email protected] Mail California Department of Social Services 744 P Street Sacramento, CA 95814 Out-of-State Inquires [email protected] Frequently Used Phone Numbers Child Care Assistance (800) 543-7793 County Medical Services Program (800) 670-6133 Lost or Stolen EBT Card (877) 328-9677 Medi-Cal Customer Services (916) 636-1980 Medicare (800) 633-4227 Senior/Elder Services (800) 677-1116 SSI/SSP and SSDI (800) 772-1213 Social Security Fraud (800) 772-1213 State Hearings Email [email protected] Request a Hearing (800) 743-8525 (800) 952-8349 TDD Status of Appeal / Postponement / Cancellation (800) 743-8525 Report Welfare Fraud Special Investigation Unit (SIU) CDSS Hotline (800) 344-8477 For Public Assistance issues, email the Public Inquiry and Response Unit at: [email protected] Quick Links About CDSS File a Public Records Requests Media Center Frequently Asked Questions Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   Reporting Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Reporting Reporting File a Complaint Against a Licensed facility, a discrimination complaint, or other complaints Report Fraud Reporting suspected welfare fraud. Report Child Care Subsidy Fraud If you suspect or would like to report potential child care subsidy fraud, please email [email protected] . Your communication should include your name, your contact information, and why you believe child care subsidy fraud occurred. Details including the program name, facility or provider name, and suspected fraudulent activity would greatly assist CDSS’ investigation. Report Abuse Child Protective Services or Adult Protective Services Hearing and Appeals Request a state fair hearing, appeal a decision Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   Community Care Expansion Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs Community Care Expansion The Community Care Expansion Program County Points of Contact Below, you'll find the link to a list of all counties in the CCE Preservation Program and contact information for each county's program lead. CCE Preservation Participating Counties County Points of Contact Overview The Community Care Expansion (CCE) Program funds the acquisition, construction, and/or rehabilitation of adult and senior care facilities that serve applicants and recipients of Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP) or Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI), who are at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Funds are also available to preserve residential care settings, including through operating subsidies for existing licensed adult and senior care facilities currently serving SSI/SSP or CAPI recipients. The CCE program was established by Assembly Bill (AB) 172 (Committee on Budget, Chapter 696, Statutes of 2021) . The Fiscal Year (FY) 2021-22 state budget appropriated $805 million for the program, available over multiple years. In FY 2022-23, AB 178 (Chapter 45, Statutes of 2022) appropriated an additional $55 million to fund operating subsidies for existing licensed facilities. CCE is part of a broader, state-wide effort to expand the state’s housing and care continuum, improve treatment outcomes, and prevent the cycle of homelessness or unnecessary institutionalization. These state-wide investments include a total of $3 billion in funding opportunities through competitive grants to qualified entities to construct, acquire and rehabilitate real estate assets. These funds are available through CCE as well as the Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) at the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). For the most recent updates and more information on the CCE Program, please visit the CCE Grant website . Background Timeline Through CCE Capital Expansion, approximately $570 million has been made available for capital expansion projects, including the acquisition, construction, and rehabilitation of residential care settings. Grantees may be approved to use a portion of these funds to establish a capitalized operating subsidy reserve (COSR) for these projects, available for use for up to 5 years. The Joint RFA and information on awardees can be found here . Awards are reviewed on a rolling basis. Through CCE Preservation, approximately $249 million has been made available through noncompetitive allocations to counties for the preservation of existing licensed residential and senior care facilities serving applicants and recipients of SSI/SSP or CAPI, including those who are experiencing or at risk of homelessness. More information, including a list of participating counties, can be found on the Building CalHHS Infrastructure website. Two types of noncompetitive funds are available to counties: Operating Subsidy Payments (OSP) to cover potential or projected operating deficits in existing residential adult and senior care facilities to avoid their closure. Capital Project (CP) funding to allow facilities to make essential physical repairs or necessary upgrades to avoid closure or make the facility compliant with licensing standards. Contact Us For more information about the CCE program, please visit the CCE Grant website . For questions or to be added to the CCE listserv, please email [email protected] . Contact Us CDSS Housing and Homelessness Division [email protected] (916) 651-5155 Resources and Information ATLL NO. 24-04 (November 6, 2024) : Informs Participating Tribes, Tribal Organizations or Consortia of the Waiver and Modification Process for the Bringing Families Home (BFH) program, Home Safe program, the Housing and Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP), and Community Care Expansion Program (CCE). ACWDL (December 14, 2022): Notice of Funding for the Community Care Expansion Program For more information about CCE, visit the CCE Grant website . Highlights CCE Midpoint Report : Details the implementation of the CCE program, its unique focus on equity and inclusivity, supported by comprehensive technical assistance to ensure operators have the resources to succeed in providing housing with care to older adults and adults with disabilities facing homelessness in their community. Fact Sheet on CDSS Housing and Homelessness Programs - 2025 Community Care Expansion Program Fact Sheet CCE Program – Capital Expansion Grant Update CCE and BHCIP Program Update Quick Links Community Care Licensing Division CCE Grant Website CCE Data Dashboard Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   H.R.1 & CalFresh: Frequently Asked Questions Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Benefits & Services Food & Nutrition Services CalFresh Frequently Asked Questions H.R. 1 (One Big Beautiful Bill Act) & CalFresh: Frequently Asked Questions Page updated March 6, 2026 What is H.R. 1, and why does it impact CalFresh? H.R. 1, also known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, is a new federal law. President Trump signed H.R. 1 on July 4, 2025. H.R. 1 is a budget bill that outlines a spending plan for the federal government. This includes spending on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as CalFresh in California. What CalFresh changes are included in H.R. 1? The new law cuts federal money that helps pay for CalFresh. This means: Some CalFresh recipients may get less money for food. More CalFresh recipients will need to participate in work or community engagement activities to keep their benefits (beginning June 1, 2026 – more information is below) . Many lawfully present immigrants will no longer qualify for CalFresh (beginning April 1, 2026 – more information is below) . There are changes to how utility costs are counted for some CalFresh recipients (began November 1, 2025 – more information is below). California will have to pay more money to help run the CalFresh program, even for some of the food benefits themselves. What changes took effect on November 1, 2025? Because of H.R. 1, on November 1, 2025, the state implemented changes to how utility costs are counted for some CalFresh recipients. As of November 1, 2025, households that do not include a member over age 60 or who has a disability must have heating or cooling costs separate from their housing costs to claim the Standard Utility Allowance or “SUA” deduction. Claiming the SUA may increase monthly CalFresh benefits. Previously, households that did not have heating and cooling costs separate from their housing costs and did not qualify for the SUA were provided a State Utility Assistance Subsidy (an annual $20.01 energy assistance payment) that entitled them to claim the SUA. Under H.R. 1, this option is now limited to households with a member over age 60 or with a disability. If your household includes a member over age 60 or with a disability, your county will continue to automatically issue you this annual energy assistance payment so that you can claim the SUA deduction. Because of this change, households without a member over age 60 or with a disability who previously received an annual energy assistance payment for this purpose may experience a reduction in their monthly CalFresh benefit. A smaller number of these households may lose CalFresh eligibility. What changes take effect on April 1, 2026? Because of H.R. 1 and beginning April 1, 2026, the state will implement changes to eliminate CalFresh eligibility for most lawfully present immigrants. Beginning April 1, 2026, the following categories of lawfully present immigrants will no longer be eligible for CalFresh: Asylees Refugees Parolees (unless they are Cuban and Haitian Entrants) Individuals with deportation or removal withheld Conditional entrants Victims of trafficking Battered noncitizens Iraqi or Afghan with Special Immigrant Visas (SIV) who are not Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) Certain Afghan Nationals granted parole between July 31, 2021, and September 30, 2023 Certain Ukrainian Nationals granted parole between February 24, 2022, and September 30, 2024 What changes take effect on June 1, 2026? Beginning June 1, 2026, the state will implement changes to the CalFresh time limit for adults age 18 to 65 who do not have young children in the home. These people must be excused from these rules or must meet a work or community engagement requirement to keep their CalFresh benefits for more than 3 months in a 36-month period. People subject to these rules are often called “Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents” or “ABAWDS” H.R. 1 changes the CalFresh time limit rules so that more people will have to meet the work or community engagement requirements to keep their CalFresh benefits. People who are excused from these rules include people who are: CHANGED in H.R. 1 : Under age 18 or over age 64 (reduced from over age 54). CHANGED in H.R. 1 : A parent or responsible for a dependent child under the age of 14 (reduced from under 18). Unable to work at least 20 hours per week or a total of 80 hours or more per month because of a physical or mental health issue. Caring for a sick, injured, or disabled person who will need your help for more than 30 days. Getting or applying for disability benefits, including but not limited to: Veteran’s disability benefits Worker’s compensation Supplemental Security Income (SSI) State issued temporary or permanent disability benefits Unable to work because you are struggling with drug or alcohol addiction or a victim of domestic violence or experiencing chronic homelessness. The condition must be tied to a physical or mental health issue. Pregnant (any stage of pregnancy). NEW in H.R. 1 : Identify as an Indian, Urban Indian or California Indian under the Indian Health Care Improvement Act (IHCIA). Participating in an Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) training program for at least half-time. Going to school at least half-time (student eligibility rules may apply) Living in an area where the ABAWD work requirement is waived. People who have to meet the work or community engagement requirement must participate in qualifying activity for up to 20 hours per week, or 80 hours averaged monthly. Qualifying activities include: Paid employment Volunteer work or community service Job training or work programs Education Workfare Combination of any of the above Who can I contact if I have questions about my CalFresh case or want to apply for CalFresh? Contact your local county social services office. You can get connected by calling 1-877-847-3663 or by visiting a local office. Find your local office here . You can also apply online at BenefitsCal.com . What if I need food help now? If you need food now, you can find your local food bank . How can I learn more about how this new legislation may impact my CalFresh and Medi-Cal benefits? For a detailed overview of these changes please watch a recorded webinar hosted by the California Health and Human Services (CHSS) Agency and including Jennifer Troia, Director of the California Department of Social Services. The recording can be accessed on the CalHHS YouTube page with the section timestamps as follows: 0:00 – Introduction by CalHHS Secretary Kim Johnson 2:28 – Medi-Cal provisions by Department of Health Care Services Director Michelle Baass 26:00 – Covered California Provisions by Covered California Executive Director Jessica Altman 38:21 – CalFresh provisions by California Department of Social Services Director Jennifer Troia 56:21 – Next steps by CalHHS Secretary Kim Johnson H.R.1 y CalFresh: Preguntas frecuentes ¿Qué es H.R. 1 y por qué afecta a CalFresh? H.R.1, conocida como One Big Beautiful Bill Act, es una nueva ley federal firmada por el presidente Trump el 4 de julio de 2025. H.R. 1 es un proyecto de ley presupuestario que describe un plan de gastos para el gobierno federal. Esto incluye los gastos del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP), conocido como CalFresh en California. ¿Qué cambios de CalFresh están incluidos en H.R. 1? La nueva ley recorta los fondos federales que ayudan a pagar CalFresh. Esto significa: Algunos beneficiarios de Preguntas frecuentes sobre H.R. 1 para clientes Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Benefits & Services Food & Nutrition Services CalFresh Frequently Asked Questions (ES) H.R.1 y CalFresh: Preguntas frecuentes ¿Qué es H.R. 1 y por qué afecta a CalFresh? H.R.1, conocida como One Big Beautiful Bill Act, es una nueva ley federal firmada por el presidente Trump el 4 de julio de 2025. H.R. 1 es un proyecto de ley presupuestario que describe un plan de gastos para el gobierno federal. Esto incluye los gastos del Programa de Asistencia Nutricional Suplementaria (SNAP), conocido como CalFresh en California. ¿Qué cambios de CalFresh están incluidos en H.R. 1? La nueva ley recorta los fondos federales que ayudan a pagar CalFresh. Esto significa: Algunos beneficiarios de CalFresh pueden recibir menos dinero para alimentos. A partir del 1 de junio de 2026, más beneficiarios de CalFresh tendrán que participar en actividades de interacción con la comunidad o trabajar para conservar sus beneficios (hay más información sobre esto más adelante). A partir del 1 de abril de 2026, muchos inmigrantes con residencia legal ya no calificarán para CalFresh (hay información sobre esto más adelante). A partir del 1 de noviembre de 2025, habrá cambios en la forma en que se contabilizan los costos de servicios públicos para algunos beneficiarios de CalFresh (hay más información sobre esto más adelante). California tendrá que pagar más dinero para ayudar a operar el programa CalFresh, incluso para algunos de los beneficios alimentarios ¿Qué cambios entraron en vigor el 1 de noviembre de 2025? Debido a HR 1, y desde el 1 de noviembre de 2025, el estado implementó cambios en la forma en que se cuentan los costos de servicios públicos para algunos beneficiarios de CalFresh. Desde el 1 de noviembre de 2025, los hogares que no incluyen a un miembro mayor de 60 años o que tenga una discapacidad deben tener costos de calefacción o aire acondicionado separados de sus costos de vivienda para reclamar la deducción de la cantidad estándar permitida para servicios públicos (Standard Utility Allowance o SUA). Reclamar la SUA puede aumentar los beneficios mensuales de CalFresh. Anteriormente, los hogares que no tenían los costos de calefacción y aire acondicionado separados de sus costos de vivienda y no calificaban para la SUA recibían un Subsidio de Asistencia de Servicios Públicos del Estado (un pago anual de asistencia energética de $20.01) que les daba derecho a reclamar la SUA. Pero ahora, bajo HR 1, esta opción se limita a hogares con un miembro mayor de 60 años o con una discapacidad. Si su hogar incluye un miembro mayor de 60 años o con una discapacidad, su condado continuará emitiéndole automáticamente este pago anual de asistencia energética para que pueda reclamar la deducción de la SUA. Debido a este cambio, los hogares sin un miembro mayor de 60 años o con una discapacidad que anteriormente recibían un pago anual de asistencia energética para este propósito pueden experimentar una reducción en su beneficio mensual de CalFresh. Un porcentaje pequeño de estos hogares pueden perder la elegibilidad de CalFresh. Para los nuevos hogares, este cambio entrará en vigor en el momento de la solicitud a partir del 1 de noviembre de 2025. Para los hogares existentes, este cambio entrará en vigor en su próxima recertificación. ¿Qué cambios entran en vigor el 1 de abril de 2026? Debido a H.R. 1, el estado implementará cambios para eliminar la elegibilidad de CalFresh para la mayoría de los inmigrantes con residencia legal a partir del 1 de abril de 2026. A partir del 1 de abril de 2026, las siguientes categorías de inmigrantes con residencia legal ya no serán elegibles para CalFresh: Asilados Refugiados Inmigrantes con permiso humanitario («parolees») excepto si son entrantes cubanos o haitianos Personas cuyo proceso de deportación o expulsión está retenido Entrantes condicionales Victimas del tráfico de personas No ciudadanos maltratados Iraquíes y afganos con visas especiales de inmigrante (Special Immigrant Visas o SIV) que no son residentes permanentes legales (Lawful Permanent Residents o LPR) Ciertos nacionales de Afganistán a los que se les concedió permiso humanitario («parole») entre el 31 de julio de 2021 y el 30 de septiembre de 2023 Ciertos nacionales de Ucrania a los que se les concedió permiso humanitario entre el 24 de febrero de 2022 y el 30 de septiembre de 2024 ¿Qué cambios entran en vigor el 1 de junio de 2026? A partir del 1 de junio de 2026, el estado implementará los cambios del límite de tiempo de CalFresh para adultos de entre 18 y 65 años que no tienen niños pequeños en el hogar. Estas personas deben tener una excepción de estas reglas o satisfacer un requisito de trabajo o de interacción con la comunidad para conservar sus beneficios durante más de 3 meses en un periodo de 36 meses. Las personas vinculadas a estas reglas son a menudo llamadas «adultos físicamente hábiles y sin dependientes» (Able-Bodied Adults without Dependents o ABAWDS). H.R. 1 cambia las reglas de límite de tiempo de CalFresh causando que más personas tendrán que satisfacer los requisitos de trabajo o de interacción con la comunidad para conservar sus beneficios de CalFresh. Las personas que están exentas de estas reglas incluyen: (CAMBIADO en H.R. 1) Personas menores de 18 o mayores de 64 años (anteriormente «mayores de 54»). (CAMBIADO en H.R. 1) Un padre/madre (o persona responsable) de un hijo dependiente menor de 14 años (anteriormente «menor de 18 años»). Personas que no pueden trabajar al menos 20 horas a la semana o un total de 80 horas o más al mes debido a un problema físico o mental. Personas cuidado a una persona enferma, lesionada o discapacitada que necesitará su ayuda durante más de 30 días. Personas recibiendo o solicitando beneficios de discapacidad, incluyendo, entre otros: Beneficios de discapacidad para veteranos Compensación por lesiones en el trabajo («worker’s compensation») Ingresos Suplementarios de Seguridad (Supplemental Security Income o SSI) Beneficios de discapacidad permanente o temporal emitidos por el estado Beneficios de discapacidad permanente o temporal emitidos por el estado Personas con un embarazo (en cualquier etapa del embarazo). (NUEVO en H.R. 1) Personas que se identifican como indígenas estadounidenses, indígenas urbanos (Urban Indian) o indígenas de California (California Indian) conforme a la Ley de Mejora de la Atención Sanitaria para Indígenas (Indian Health Care Improvement Act o IHCIA). Personas que participan, al menos a tiempo parcial, en un programa de capacitación de una Oficina de Relocalización de Refugiados (Office of Refugee Resettlement o ORR). Personas que asisten a la escuela al menos a tiempo parcial (es posible que se apliquen las reglas sobre la elegibilidad para estudiantes). Personas viviendo en un área en donde haya una exención del requisito de trabajo de ABAWD Las personas que deben satisfacer el requisito de trabajo o de interacción con la comunidad deben participar en la actividad calificada durante al menos 20 horas a la semana o un promedio de 80 horas al mes. Actividades calificadas incluyen: Trabajo remunerado Trabajo de voluntariado o servicio comunitario Capacitación laboral o programas de empleo Educación Beneficios a cambio de trabajo (workfare) Cualquier combinación de las opciones anteriormente mencionadas ¿Con quién puedo comunicarme si tengo preguntas sobre mi caso de CalFresh o quiero solicitar CalFresh? Comuníquese con la oficina lo Careers With CDSS Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Careers With CDSS Work With a Purpose Get a Job with CDSS The California Department of Social Services has more than 5,000+ employees and offers many career choices in locations throughout California. CDSS Job Vacancies Search for job vacancies at California Department of Social Services Examination Information Search for California Department of Social Services examination announcements Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   Home | California Dept. of Social Services Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Find a County Office Apply for Cash Aid Apply for Food & Nutrition In-Home Supportive Services Find Licensed Care Report Abuse Request Hearing Report Fraud Headlines and Hot Topics H.R. 1 to Result in Changes to CalFresh, Medi-Cal A new federal law, H.R. 1, will reduce who is eligible for the CalFresh food program and will cut the amount of CalFresh benefits that some people receive. Your county will let you know if and when these changes affect you. Get more information in English and Spanish regarding recent changes and other changes that will take effect on June 1, 2026. For information on changes to Medi-Cal, visit the Department of Health Care Services website . CDSS Roadmap for Facility Licensing The Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) has step-by-step resources to guide applicants through the licensing process. Help is available for Adult and Senior Care Program [PDF] , Child Care Program , Children’s Residential Program [PDF] , and Home Care Services applicants. Access a general license overview guide on the CCLD webpage [PDF] . Protect Your EBT Benefits Californians are encouraged to take steps to prevent Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) theft. The California Department of Social Services created videos with security tips for EBT cardholders ( English , Spanish ). If you think your benefits may have been stolen, immediately call the customer service telephone number on the back of your EBT card, (877) 328-9677, or contact your county social services agency. A mobile app and web-based portal called ebtEDGE provides EBT cardholders in California with tools to protect their CalFresh and CalWORKs benefits. The free app is available for download in the Apple App store and Google Play store . Web-based access is also available. The Department offers videos about the app ( English , Spanish ). State Offers Tips to Communities Impacted by Federal Immigration Raids California is offering support for communities experiencing federal immigration raids, sharing new “know your rights” resources with the community. The Governor’s Office has released new fact sheets in English and Spanish . SUN Bucks Summer Food Program for Kids SUN Bucks provides families in California with $120 for each eligible child to help buy groceries during the summer months. Most eligible children receive SUN Bucks automatically each year. Families who do not receive benefits automatically can apply through their child’s school or school administrator’s office. Families can submit applications for summer 2026 until August 31, 2026. For more information on SUN Bucks, visit the SUN Bucks webpage . CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Program Returns The CalFresh Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project has returned. Eligible CalFresh households will once again receive a dollar-for-dollar match up to $60 per month when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at participating retailers and farmers’ markets. All current and former CalFresh households with an active EBT food balance who shop at participating retailers and farmers’ markets are eligible. A total of 92 retail locations, mostly in Southern California, are participating in the pilot. More information and participating locations . Free Access to State Parks and Beaches for CalWORKs and Tribal TANF Recipients California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) and Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients can enjoy a free Golden Bear Pass to access more than 200 California state parks and beaches. This pass provides free vehicle day-use access and will be valid until December 31 of the year in which the pass was issued. Learn more: https://cdss.ca.gov/goldenbearpass What to Know About Public Charge The U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final public charge rule that went into effect December 23, 2022, that allows immigrants and their loved ones across California to seek and accept medical care, food assistance, and public housing without fear or confusion about public charge consequences. Under the current rule, participation in CalFresh, public housing, or Medi-Cal (except for long-term care), is not be considered as part of the public charge determination. Information about the current policy is available on this California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) webpage . In 2025, the Trump administration proposed a new rule to rescind the 2022 public charge regulation, but this proposal is not yet in effect. The CalHHS, along with its departments, submitted a formal comment letter opposing the proposed rule and outlining the harmful impacts it would have on the health and well-being of Californians. We encourage individuals and their families to consult an immigration attorney and understand eligibility requirements for each program, to understand the benefits and any potential risk of enrolling in public benefits programs. Individuals in California seeking assistance are encouraged to consult one of many State-funded organizations that provide legal services to immigrants. Here is a list of immigration services providers funded by CDSS. Taking Steps to Better Serve Foster Youth California has made transformative changes to the way the State cares for children and youth in the foster care system. The Continuum of Care Reform (CCR) was founded upon the collective belief among stakeholders involved in California’s child welfare system that all children served by the foster care system need, deserve, and have an ability to be part of a loving family, and not to grow up in a congregate setting . When CCR implementation began in 2017, an interim foster care rate structure was created. However, statute required a payment structure by January 1, 2025. To this end, the Department recently unveiled a new, permanent rate structure , which was informed by feedback from current and former foster youth, county placing agencies, Tribes, and other interested parties. California is restructuring rates so that they are based on the needs of each child, not placement type. By restructuring the system this way, California can help address historical racial inequities and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and trauma. The new rates will take effect beginning July 1, 2027. Read additional information and a detailed summary on the new rate structure. For more information about programs, projects, and resources for foster youth and foster youth caregivers, visit the CDSS foster care webpage . Also access an issue brief on the efforts underway in California to better meet the needs of individual foster youth and improve California’s foster care system. Progress Report: California’s Master Plan for Early Learning and Care California has made significant progress in implementing the Master Plan for Early Learning and Care, which provided a road map for building a stronger, more equitable early learning and child care system. Access a progress report . Community Care Expansion Grants Expand Housing Nearly $570 million in Community Care Expansion (CCE) program grants have been awarded to new housing projects across the state. CCE projects – many of which are already underway – will create new housing at licensed adult and senior care residences, permanent supportive housing sites, and other housing options, including a first-of-its-kind housing project on Tribal lands for elders. These housing options will offer a How to Become Licensed Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs Community Care Licensing Child Care Licensing How to Become Licensed How to Become Licensed The Child Care Licensing Program licenses both Child Care Centers (CCCs) and Family Child Care Homes (FCCHs) in California. Child Care Centers are usually located in a commercial building and Family Child Care Homes are in a licensee’s home. Only non-medical care and supervision can be provided in child care facilities and care is limited to periods of less than 24 hours. The Child Care Licensing Program ensures that child care facilities operate according to the California Health and Safety Code and Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations in a number of ways: In-person and online orientations Pre-licensing inspections Unannounced facility inspections Complaint investigations Consultations Education and technical support, and Follow-up inspections Pathway to Licensure CCLD License Application Process Steps to Obtaining a Child Care Center License Steps to Obtaining a Family Child Care Home License Is this the right business for me? Do I Need a License? Register for an Orientation CCIP Family Child Care Provider Stories Do you love caring for children? The California Child Care Initiative Project (CCIP) will help you launch and grow your home-based child care business. Watch these videos to learn more about the program. Fact Sheets: Family Child Care Home Provider Requirements – English Form Spanish Form Family Child Care Home Capacity Requirements – English Form Spanish Form Child Care Center Provider Requirements Child Care Center Capacity Requirements Resources: Forms and Brochures Centralized Complaint and Information Bureau Mandated Reporter Training Child Care Related Websites Child Care Videos for Providers and Parents Contact Us LA Wildfires Information and Resources: [email protected] Community Care Licensing Division Child Care Licensing Program 744 P Street Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (916) 651-6040 Child Care Advocates - (916) 654-1541 PDF of Child Care Licensing Regional Offices CCLD Complaint Hotline If you see something, let us know! To file a complaint regarding a state licensed community care facility , child care facility, or home care organization, visit our Complaint Hotline Page for contact information and more. Complaint Hotline and Information CCLD Services and Notifications Find Licensed Care Pay Licensing Fees Receive Important Updates Quick Links Adam Walsh Information Immunization Reporting California Background Check Process California Making Access Possible CCLD Data Hub Child Care Advocate Program Licensed Child Care Trends Report Child Care Facility Fatality Data Child Care Licensing Orientations Child Care Licensing Webinars Child Care Transparency Website (Licensing Facility Inspection Reports) Disaster Resources Forms Help Paying for Child Care Inclusive Early Education Resources Laws and Regulations Fact Sheet on Child Care Licensing Lead Poisoning Facts Flyer Translations: ( Arabic , Farsi , Español , Russian , 한국어 , 中文 , Tiếng Việt ) Lead Toxicity Prevention and Water Testing Information Livescan Application Process & Fees Megan's Law Mental Health and Wellness Resources My Child Care Plan Provider Information Notices (PINs) Quarterly Updates Safe Sleep in Child Care Surveys TrustLine Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   Continuum of Care Reform Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs Continuum of Care Reform --> SOC System of Care Branch California Department of Social Services The Hawkins family saw a Facebook post for foster-adopt and made a lasting connection with Kassidy, a teenager in foster care, creating a new story for their lives. The Continuum of Care Reform draws together a series of existing and new reforms to our child welfare services program designed out of an understanding that children who must live apart from their biological parents do best when they are cared for in committed nurturing family homes. Assembly Bill 403 provides the statutory and policy framework to ensure services and supports provided to the child or youth and his or her family are tailored toward the ultimate goal of maintaining a stable permanent family. Continuum of Care Reform Highlights NEW: Foster Care Issue Brief CCR Issue Brief Complex Care Resource Guide Supporting Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities CCR Infographic Fact Sheet Health Access Diagram | Family Finding STRTP Infographic Level of Care Rate Determination Protocol Infographic Contact Us System of Care Branch (Formerly CCR Branch) Branch Line (916) 651-2752 [email protected] Quick Links STRTP Peer to Peer Webinar Series STRTP Interim Licensing Standards (ILS), Version 5 (Released 12/11/2023) CCR Meetings and Presentations CCR Data Dashboard The Integrated Core Practice Model FSH Fund Information Stakeholder Quarterly Meeting 3/12/2019 Frequently Used Acronyms List Presumptive Transfer CCRGuidance and Instructions Child-Specific Technical Assistance Calls FFPSA --> Subscribe to the latest CFSD news! View Previous Announcements Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   SUN Bucks Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS SUN Bucks SUN Bucks SUN Bucks - A Summer Food Program for Children California’s Summer EBT program, also known as SUN Bucks, provides $120 per eligible child to help families buy food during the summer when school is out. Most eligible children get SUN Bucks automatically. Other families must apply for SUN Bucks benefits at their child's school. Getting and using SUN Bucks does not affect a family’s immigration status. Children who get SUN Bucks can still participate in other food assistance programs , like CalFresh and Summer Meal Programs. For cardholder assistance, the SUN Bucks helpline is available at (877) 328-9677. The helpline provides automated support 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Live agents are available Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. To check your benefit balance and claim status, visit the California EBT cardholder website . To learn more, click on the different pages below for specific information. What are SUN Bucks Who is Eligible How to Get SUN Bucks How to Submit a Dispute FAQs Other Food Resources Partners "A message from the Secretary of the California Health and Human Services Agency, Kim Johnson." (English) “ Un mensaje de la Secretaria del CHHS, Kim Johnson.” (Español) Nondiscrimination Statement *This link is neither owned nor maintained by the California Department of Social Services. Last Updated: February 20, 2026 Quick Links SUN Bucks What are SUN Bucks? Who is Eligible? How to Get SUN Bucks? How to Submit a Dispute? FAQs Other Food Resources Partners SUN Bucks Disaster Response California EBT cardholder website to check card balance Other Nutrition Resources Summer Meal Programs website Visit CalFresh to discover other food benefits Find Food Banks in California Women, Infants and Children Nutrition Program California Department of Public Health: Healthy Eating and Physical Activity as a Family *Note: This website is neither owned nor maintained by the California Department of Social Services. Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California -->   Statewide Outreach Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Statewide Outreach Statewide Digital Communications Outreach Our Mission The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) outreach team aims to serve and empower program recipients of public social services and benefit programs, by providing up-to-date, critical information and resources in an accessible manner. Senate Bill 86 (Chapter 15, Statutes of 2021) provided CDSS the authority to notify clients of potential eligibility for other benefits and services not administered by CDSS. CDSS program recipients are automatically opted in to receive outreach message notifications regarding program benefits and service resources. The CDSS outreach team sends notifications for all campaign outreach via SMS/text messages, email, and recorded voice messages, among other methods as required by the campaign plan. Overview The CDSS outreach team collaborates with diverse partnerships, including clients, advocacy groups, and county workers and their representatives, to ensure that messages are accessible and informative. Vision: The 4 C’s Coordinate and identify partnerships to bolster the access of available services to each county’s local communities and partners. Cultivate reliability, trust, and transparency between CDSS Outreach and program recipients. Create access to additional benefits and services and reduce barriers for program recipients and their families. Collaborate and foster relationships to strengthen partnerships and improve community engagement and provide access to services. Outreach Principles CDSS is committed to providing updates in various languages in order to meet client needs. CDSS shares messages via different modes in order to meet the needs of diverse adult learners. CDSS creates resources to help support clients in navigating calls-to-action, such as webpages and social media campaigns for each outreach effort. Digital Communications The CDSS messages clients via text, email and recorded voice messages. Social Media The CDSS posts information via our multiple social media channels including but not limited to: Facebook, Instagram, and X. Television, Radio Ads, Other Channels In collaboration with contracted partners, CDSS outreach may conduct promotional campaigns for TV, radio, and other channels to inform the public about available resources to support program recipients and their families. Contact Us CDSS Outreach Team 744 P Street, MS 8-8-139 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 651-0515 [email protected] Outreach Helpline 1-888-445-1955 Outreach Campaigns Income Tax Return Filing Information and Resources 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 Pandemic Emergency Assistance Fund (PEAF) PEAF Payment I PEAF Payment II Golden State Grant Golden Bear Pass Quick Links CDSS Privacy Policy Reporting CalWORKs CalFresh Child Care Guaranteed Income Exemption Requests Letters/Attachments/Online Publications-Forms: ACIN-I-74-24E Attachment 1-Spanish ACIN-I-01-26 EITC PUB 428 PUB 429 Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   Careers With CDSS Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Careers With CDSS Work With a Purpose Get a Job with CDSS The California Department of Social Services has more than 5,000+ employees and offers many career choices in locations throughout California. CDSS Job Vacancies Search for job vacancies at California Department of Social Services Examination Information Search for California Department of Social Services examination announcements Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   Home Care Services Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs Community Care Licensing Home Care Services Home Care Services Home Care Services Branch (HCSB) The Home Care Services Branch (HCSB) is responsible for licensing Home Care Organizations including processing applications, receiving and responding to complaints and conducting unannounced visits to ensure compliance. HCSB is also responsible for the Home Care Aide application process and maintenance of the Home Care Aide Registry. California law established the Home Care Services Consumer Protection Act which, as of January 2016, requires Home Care Organizations to be licensed and creates a public online registry for Home Care Aides who have been background checked. This law is intended to promote consumer protection for elderly and disabled individuals who hire private aides to come into their homes and provide assistance with activities of daily living. Guardian Guardian is now live! Please visit the Guardian webpage and the appropriate blue boxes on the webpage for more information, training resources and links to the system. If you have any questions regarding Guardian, please contact CDSS at [email protected] Caregivers Families Licensees Registry Contact Us Community Care Licensing Division Home Care Services Branch 744 P Street MS 9-14-90 Sacramento, CA 95814 Phone: (877) 424-5778 Email: [email protected] Home Care Organization Complaints How can I file a complaint regarding a licensee, staff person, caregiver, or home care organization? Visit the CCLD Complaint Hotline page for con tact information and more. Remember, when you report suspected licensing violations, you protect persons in care and perform a service to your community. Information on reporting suspected abuse or fraud is available o n the Reporting pa ge. Local law enforcement and Adult Protective Services or Child Protective Services will be responsible for conducting an investigation . For general licensing inquiries, contact the HCSB. CCLD Complaint Hotline If you see something, let us know! To file a complaint regarding a state licensed community care facility , child care facility, or home care organization, visit our Complaint Hotline Page for contact information and more. Complaint Hotline and Information CCLD Services and Notifications Find Licensed Care Pay Licensing Fees Receive Important Updates Quick Links Application Fees CCLD Data Hub CCLD Roadmap for Licensing Home Care Aide Application Process Home Care Aide Registry Home Care Organization Application Process Home Care Organization Application Steps Laws and Policies Provider Information Notices (PINs) Resources for Home Care Aides Resources for Home Care Organizations Resources for Seniors and Families Transparency Site (Facility Search) Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   Notice on Collection Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Notice on Collection CDSS-ISO-5310.1-P002, Privacy Notice on Collection California Department of Social Services Privacy Notice on Collection Effective: June 2016 Revised: November 2022 The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) Privacy Notice on Collection covers our practices regarding personal information collected when you complete applications and forms (online or hardcopy) for our various programs. Personal information may include: name, social security number, physical description, home address, home telephone number, and educational, financial, medical, or employment information. Any personal information collected is governed by the requirements of the following authorities and all other laws pertaining to personal information: Government Code Section 11015.5 Health and Safety Code Section 1500 et seq. Information Practices Act - Civil Code Section 1798 et seq. Public Records Act - Government Code Section 6250 et seq. Safeguarding Information for the Financial Assistance Programs - 45 CFR Section 205.50 Statewide Administrative Manual (SAM) Section Privacy 5310 et seq. Statewide Information Management Manual (SIMM) 5310 - A & B. Welfare and Institutions Code Section 10850 et seq. CDSS collects personal information directly from individuals who opt to obtain some of our services. Collection of this information is required to deliver the specific services, however, use of these services is voluntary. Failure to provide required information for the service may result in a denial of services. The information collected will not be shared with any other government agency, unless required or allowed by law. In addition, CDSS will not commercially distribute or sell any personal information about individuals to any third-party entity without the individual’s written consent. Please do not provide personal information that is not requested. Any fields in the application or form are intended for the requested information only. Individuals who provide personal information to CDSS have the right to review the information for accuracy and completeness and to request corrections or deletions. For personal information access requests send an email to CDSS’ Public Inquiry and Response Unit at [email protected] and/or call (916) 651-8848. PIAR will direct you to the program representative who can help with your request. For more consumer information on security, please see the California Department of Justice’s, “ Security Awareness ” website. Security Awareness Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California -->   Data Portal Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Data Portal var siteAlias = '/inforesources/Data-Portal'; window.location.assign(siteAlias); URL: Enter the path/page for the page that will be used in this redirect. To edit once redirecting: Append ?edit to the end of this page's url. Save Cancel Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California -->   Tips for Using Adobe PDF Files Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Tips for Using Adobe PDF Files Tips for Using Adobe PDF Files Many of our online forms, reports, regulations and publications are only in Portable Document Format (PDF). PDF files can be viewed using Adobe's free Reader software. Download free Adobe Reader Problems With Our PDF Files? There are several reasons why you may not be able to open or print CDSS online PDF files, especially if it is a large PDF file, and/or if you use slower, dial-up Internet access or you are using an older version of Adobe Acrobat Reader software. Steps to help you view or print online PDF files: A. Do you have a working copy of the latest version of Adobe Reader on your computer? You can check this by clicking on the above link to visit the Adobe Reader download site. You can also try to open other PDF files (either online or stored on your computer) to verify that your Reader software is working correctly. B. If you still cannot open or print a PDF file, you can usually work around the problem by downloading the file to your computer before opening it . Here is how you do that: Right click on the link to the PDF file. Do NOT open it at this time. Choose "Save Target As..." from the pull-down menu. (Note: if you are using a Mac instead of a PC, choose "download to disk") The "Save As" window will appear. Note: It may take the "Save As" window awhile to appear if you are downloading a large PDF file or are using dial-up Internet access. In the "Save In" box at the top, select a location to save the file on your computer that will be easy for you to remember. Your desktop or My Documents are the two most common locations. Click on "Save". The PDF file will now download to your computer. After the download process is finished, navigate to the location where you saved the file and double click on it to open it. You should be able to open and print the file from this location without any problem. Microsoft Excel File Format The Microsoft Excel format (.xls) is the file format to use to download data for data calculations. You must have Microsoft Excel or the free installed Microsoft Excel Viewer on your computer before you download data. The Microsoft Excel Viewer offers the limited ability to manipulate data, and can be downloaded from the Microsoft website . Contact Us For additional assistance viewing forms and documents Contact CDSS . Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California -->   Home | California Dept. of Social Services Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Find a County Office Apply for Cash Aid Apply for Food & Nutrition In-Home Supportive Services Find Licensed Care Report Abuse Request Hearing Report Fraud Headlines and Hot Topics H.R. 1 to Result in Changes to CalFresh, Medi-Cal A new federal law, H.R. 1, will reduce who is eligible for the CalFresh food program and will cut the amount of CalFresh benefits that some people receive. Your county will let you know if and when these changes affect you. Get more information in English and Spanish regarding recent changes and other changes that will take effect on June 1, 2026. For information on changes to Medi-Cal, visit the Department of Health Care Services website . CDSS Roadmap for Facility Licensing The Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) has step-by-step resources to guide applicants through the licensing process. Help is available for Adult and Senior Care Program [PDF] , Child Care Program , Children’s Residential Program [PDF] , and Home Care Services applicants. Access a general license overview guide on the CCLD webpage [PDF] . Protect Your EBT Benefits Californians are encouraged to take steps to prevent Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) theft. The California Department of Social Services created videos with security tips for EBT cardholders ( English , Spanish ). If you think your benefits may have been stolen, immediately call the customer service telephone number on the back of your EBT card, (877) 328-9677, or contact your county social services agency. A mobile app and web-based portal called ebtEDGE provides EBT cardholders in California with tools to protect their CalFresh and CalWORKs benefits. The free app is available for download in the Apple App store and Google Play store . Web-based access is also available. The Department offers videos about the app ( English , Spanish ). State Offers Tips to Communities Impacted by Federal Immigration Raids California is offering support for communities experiencing federal immigration raids, sharing new “know your rights” resources with the community. The Governor’s Office has released new fact sheets in English and Spanish . SUN Bucks Summer Food Program for Kids SUN Bucks provides families in California with $120 for each eligible child to help buy groceries during the summer months. Most eligible children receive SUN Bucks automatically each year. Families who do not receive benefits automatically can apply through their child’s school or school administrator’s office. Families can submit applications for summer 2026 until August 31, 2026. For more information on SUN Bucks, visit the SUN Bucks webpage . CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Program Returns The CalFresh Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project has returned. Eligible CalFresh households will once again receive a dollar-for-dollar match up to $60 per month when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at participating retailers and farmers’ markets. All current and former CalFresh households with an active EBT food balance who shop at participating retailers and farmers’ markets are eligible. A total of 92 retail locations, mostly in Southern California, are participating in the pilot. More information and participating locations . Free Access to State Parks and Beaches for CalWORKs and Tribal TANF Recipients California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) and Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients can enjoy a free Golden Bear Pass to access more than 200 California state parks and beaches. This pass provides free vehicle day-use access and will be valid until December 31 of the year in which the pass was issued. Learn more: https://cdss.ca.gov/goldenbearpass What to Know About Public Charge The U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final public charge rule that went into effect December 23, 2022, that allows immigrants and their loved ones across California to seek and accept medical care, food assistance, and public housing without fear or confusion about public charge consequences. Under the current rule, participation in CalFresh, public housing, or Medi-Cal (except for long-term care), is not be considered as part of the public charge determination. Information about the current policy is available on this California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) webpage . In 2025, the Trump administration proposed a new rule to rescind the 2022 public charge regulation, but this proposal is not yet in effect. The CalHHS, along with its departments, submitted a formal comment letter opposing the proposed rule and outlining the harmful impacts it would have on the health and well-being of Californians. We encourage individuals and their families to consult an immigration attorney and understand eligibility requirements for each program, to understand the benefits and any potential risk of enrolling in public benefits programs. Individuals in California seeking assistance are encouraged to consult one of many State-funded organizations that provide legal services to immigrants. Here is a list of immigration services providers funded by CDSS. Taking Steps to Better Serve Foster Youth California has made transformative changes to the way the State cares for children and youth in the foster care system. The Continuum of Care Reform (CCR) was founded upon the collective belief among stakeholders involved in California’s child welfare system that all children served by the foster care system need, deserve, and have an ability to be part of a loving family, and not to grow up in a congregate setting . When CCR implementation began in 2017, an interim foster care rate structure was created. However, statute required a payment structure by January 1, 2025. To this end, the Department recently unveiled a new, permanent rate structure , which was informed by feedback from current and former foster youth, county placing agencies, Tribes, and other interested parties. California is restructuring rates so that they are based on the needs of each child, not placement type. By restructuring the system this way, California can help address historical racial inequities and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and trauma. The new rates will take effect beginning July 1, 2027. Read additional information and a detailed summary on the new rate structure. For more information about programs, projects, and resources for foster youth and foster youth caregivers, visit the CDSS foster care webpage . Also access an issue brief on the efforts underway in California to better meet the needs of individual foster youth and improve California’s foster care system. Progress Report: California’s Master Plan for Early Learning and Care California has made significant progress in implementing the Master Plan for Early Learning and Care, which provided a road map for building a stronger, more equitable early learning and child care system. Access a progress report . Community Care Expansion Grants Expand Housing Nearly $570 million in Community Care Expansion (CCE) program grants have been awarded to new housing projects across the state. CCE projects – many of which are already underway – will create new housing at licensed adult and senior care residences, permanent supportive housing sites, and other housing options, including a first-of-its-kind housing project on Tribal lands for elders. These housing options will offer a Accessibility Certification Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Accessibility Certification Accessibility Certification We strive to provide a website that is easy to use and understand. Our goal is to provide a good web experience for all visitors. Website Accessibility Certification Agency California Department of Social Services Certification Date July 1, 2025 Contact PIAR As of July 1, 2025 the California Department of Social Services certifies their site to be compliant with California Government Code Sections 7405 and 11135, and the Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2 AA standard, or a subsequent version: Web Accessibility Certification Document If you have difficulty accessing any material on this website, please contact the [email protected] or (916) 651-8848 and provide the URL (web address) or other relevant information on the material you would like to access and your preferred format for accessing the information. We will work with you to make the information available. Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   CalWORKs Housing Support Program Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs Housing Programs CalWORKs Housing Support Program CalWORKs Housing Support Program The CalWORKs Housing Support Program (HSP) was established in 2014 to foster housing stability for families experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness in the CalWORKs program. HSP offers housing-related financial assistance – such as rental assistance, security deposits, utility payments, moving costs, and hotel/motel vouchers – alongside wraparound supportive services, which may include housing navigation, case management, referrals for legal services, and credit repair. As of Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-25, fifty-six (56) counties operate HSP and each program is tailored to meet the needs of the local community. More information about participating HSP grantees is available in County Fiscal Letter (CFL) 24/25-11 . Eligibility/For Whom HSP assists families in the CalWORKs program that are experiencing homelessness or are at risk of homelessness, including families receiving CalWORKs who have not yet received an eviction notice, and for whom housing instability would be a barrier to self-sufficiency or child well-being. To ensure that funding remains prioritized for those with the highest vulnerabilities, CDSS recommends that counties use the majority of funds to support people experiencing homelessness. For additional details and definitions of eligibility, please refer to Attachment One of the All County Welfare Directors Letter dated December 13, 2021 . Program Funding HSP was established in 2014 by Senate Bill 855 with a $20 million budget, and funding has gradually increased since the program's inception. In addition to the $95 million HSP currently receives annually, in each FY 2021-22 and FY 2022-23, HSP received an additional $190 million in one-time funds. How to Apply The Housing Support Program is administered through CalWORKs at the county level. Contact your local county welfare office or the County Point of Contact to learn more. Contact Us CDSS Housing and Homelessness Division [email protected] (916) 651-5155 Resources and Information County Points of Contact (Updated April 2026) CFL 25/26-05 (August 12, 2025) : California Work Opportunity And Responsibility To Kids Housing Support Program Allocation Final Fiscal Year (FY) 2025-26 ACWDL (June 11, 2025) : CalWORKs Housing Support Program (HSP) Notification of Available Planning Allocations for FY 2025-26 ACWDL (March 5, 2025) : Notice of Extension of the Expenditure and Claiming Deadline for the Bringing Families Home Program, California Work Opportunity And Responsibility to Kids Housing Support Program, Home Safe Program, And Housing and Disability Advocacy Program for Program Funds with an Expenditure Deadline of June 30, 2025 CFL 24/25-11 (September 20, 2024) : Fiscal Year (FY) 2024-25 Allocation and Final Redistribution of the FY 2021-22, FY 2022-23, and FY 2023-24 Allocations ACWDL (June 28, 2024) : CalWORKs Housing Support Program (HSP) Program Planning Allocation Notice for FY 2024-25 Funding and Redistribution of FY 2021-22, 2022-23, and 2023-24 Funds CFL 23/24-35 (December 19, 2023) : Fiscal Year 2023-24 California Work Opportunity And Responsibility To Kids Housing Support Program Allocation ACIN I-54-23 (September 29, 2023) : CalWORKs Housing Support Program (HSP) Program Update Notification ACWDL (September 27, 2023) : Notice of funding for CalWORKs Housing Support Program (HSP) County Fiscal Letter (CFL) 22/23-43 (December 30, 2022) : Fiscal Year (FY) 2022-23 Bringing Families Home (BFH), Home Safe, the Housing and Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP), and California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids Housing Support Program (CalWORKs HSP) Allocation ACWDL (September 21, 2022) Notice of Funding for CalWORKs Housing Support Program (HSP), Bringing Families Home (BFH) Program, Housing and Disability Advocacy Program (HDAP), and Home Safe Program CFL 21/22-90 (March 30, 2022) : FY 21-22 CalWORKs HSP Planning Allocation ACWDL (December 13, 2021) : CalWORKs HSP Notice Of Funding And Expansion of Eligibility To Include Homelessness Prevention CFL 21/22-26 (September 24, 2021) : Updated TANF Administrative and Non-Administrative Cost Claiming Policy and Instructions CFL 21/22-05 (July 22, 2021) Fiscal Year 2021-22 California Work Opportunity And Responsibility To Kids Housing Support Program Planning Allocation ACWDL (May 13, 2021) : CalWORKs HSP ACWDL (July 14, 2020) : CalWORKs HSP CFL 20/21-01 (July 13, 2020) : FY 2020-21 HSP Planning Allocation ACWDL (March 19, 2020) : Interim Housing And Homeless Program Guidance and Recommendations During COVID-19 CFL 19/20-69 (March 9, 2020) : Updated FY 2019-20 HSP Allocation ACL 19-114: (December 13, 2019) : Implementation of SB 1380: Housing First ACWDL (August 2, 2018) : Implementation of Revised CalWORKs HSP Monthly Status Report (HSP 14) Welfare and Institutions Code 11330-11330.5 Highlights Fact Sheet on CDSS Housing and Homelessness Programs - 2025 Fact Sheet on CDSS Housing and Homelessness Programs - 2024 CalWORKs Housing Support Program Fact Sheet CalWORKs Annual Summary (Chapter 10) San Luis Obispo Success Story CalWORKs Housing Support Program 10-Year Anniversary Newsletter Quick Links CalWORKs CalWORKs Family Stabilization program Refugee Housing Support Program Tribal TANF Back to CDSS Housing Programs Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   Public Charge Contact List Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Benefits & Services More Services Immigration Services Immigration Services Contractors Public Charge Contact List Public Charge Provider List The organizations on this list are able to provide assistance regarding public charge. Northern California (including Bay Area) | Central Coast | Central Valley | Greater Los Angeles Area (Including Orange County) | Inland Empire | San Diego Northern California (including Bay Area) El Concilio 224 S Sutter Street Stockton, CA 95203 (209) 337-7505 https://www.elconcilio.org/ County: San Joaquin Languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach World Relief Sacramento 4616 Roseville Rd. Suite 107 North Highlands, CA 95660 (916) 978-3410 www.worldreliefsacramento.org County: Sacramento Languages: English Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach UpValley Family Centers of Napa County 1500 Cedar Street Calistoga, CA 94515 (707) 965-5010 www.upvalleyfamilycenters.org County: Napa Languages: English, Spanish Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach Canal Alliance 91 Larkspur Street San Rafael, CA 94901 (415) 454-2640 www.canalalliance.org County: Marin Languages: Portuguese, Spanish Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach Jewish Family and Children's Services 2150 Post Street, PO Box 159004 San Francisco, CA 94115 (415) 449-1200 www.jfcs.org County: San Francisco Languages: English, Russian Services: Consultation/Intake Chinese for Affirmative Action 17 Walter U. Lum Place San Francisco, CA 94108 (415) 274-6750 www.caasf.org County: San Francisco Languages: Cantonese, English, Mandarin, Fukien Services: Education Outreach Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County 330 Twin Dolphin Dr. Suite 123 Redwood City, CA 94065 (650) 558-0915 https://www.legalaidsmc.org/ County: San Mateo Languages: English, Spanish Services: Education Outreach East Bay Community Law Center 1950 University Ave., Ste 200 Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 548-4040 www.ebclc.org County: Alameda, Contra Costa Languages: English, Spanish, Any requested language Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach East Bay Sanctuary Covenant 2362 Bancroft Way Berkeley, CA 94704 (510) 540-5296 www.eastbaysanctuary.org County: Alameda Languages: Arabic, English, French, Kanjobal, Mam, Mandarin, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish Services: Education Outreach Safe Passages 250 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Suite 6306 San Francisco, CA 94109 (510) 238-4914 www.safepassages.org County: Alameda Languages: English, Spanish Services: Education Outreach Immigration Institute of the Bay Area 1111 Market Street, 4th Floor San Francisco, CA 94103 (415) 538-8100 ext. 206 www.iibayarea.org County: Alameda, Contra Costa, Napa, San Francisco, San Joaquin, San Mateo, Sonoma Languages: English, Mandarin, Spanish Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach Multicultural Institute 1920 7th Street Berkeley, CA 94710 (510) 847-1479 www.mionline.org County: Alameda, Contra Costa, San Mateo Languages: English, Spanish Services: Education Outreach Pars Equality Center 1635 The Alameda, San Jose, CA 95126 (408) 261-6400 www.parsequalitycenter.org County: Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Ventura Languages: Armenian, Assyrian, English, Farsi, French, Spanish Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach Services, Immigrant Rights Education Network (SIREN) 1415 Koll Circle, Suite 108 San Jose, CA 95112 (408) 453-3003 www.siren-bayarea.org County: Fresno, Kings, Madera, Merced, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Stanislaus, Tulare Languages: English, Farsi, Spanish, Vietnamese Services: Education Outreach Asian Law Alliance 991 West Hedding Street, Suite 202 San Jose, CA 95126 (408) 287-9710 www.asianlawalliance.org County: Santa Clara Languages: English, Mandarin, Cantonese, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Korean, Any requested language Services: Education Outreach Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County 2625 Zanker Road, Ste 201 San Jose, CA 95134 (408) 944-0691 www.catholiccharitiesscc.org County: Santa Clara Languages: English, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Hindi, and Punjabi Services: Education Outreach Jubilee Immigration Advocates 433 California St Suite 800 San Francisco, CA 94104 (415) 813-1958 https://jubileelegal.org/ County: San Francisco Languages: Mandarin, Cantonese, Spanish, Tagalog Services: Education Outreach Vietnamese American Community Center of the East Bay 655 International Boulevard Oakland, CA 94606 (510) 891-9999 www.vacceb.net County: Alameda Languages: English, Vietnamese Services: Education Outreach International Rescue Committee – Turlock 3446 N Golden State Blvd, Suite A Turlock, CA 95382 (209) 667-2378 https://www.rescue.org/united-states/turlock-ca County: Stanislaus Languages: Spanish, Farsi Services: Education Outreach Back to Top Central Coast Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, Inc (CAB) 406 Main St, Suite 207 Watsonville, CA 95076 (831) 724-5667 www.cabinc.org County: Monterrey, San Benito, Santa Cruz Languages: Spanish, Mixteco, and Portuguese Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach Importa Santa Barbara 129 E Carrillo St. Santa Barbara, CA 93101 (805) 604-5060 www.importasb.org County: Santa Barbara Languages: English, Spanish Services: Consultation/Intake Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Santa Rosa 655 International Boulevard Oakland, CA 94606 (707) 528-8712 www.srcharities.org County: Sonoma Languages: Inquire for language Services: Education Outreach Central Coast Alliance United for a Sustainable Economy (CAUSE) 2021 Sperry Avenue, #9 Ventura, CA 93003 (508) 685-0810 www.causenow.org County: Santa Barbara, Ventura Languages: English, Spanish, Inquire for other languages Services: Education Outreach Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) 135 Magnolia Avenue Oxnard, CA 93030 (805) 483-1166 www.mixteco.org County: Ventura Languages: Spanish, Mixteco, Purepecha Services: Education Outreach Mixteco/Indigena Community Organizing Project (MICOP) 716 East Chapel Street Santa Maria, CA 93454 (805) 862-4169 www.mixteco.org County: Ventura Languages: Spanish, Mixteco, Purepecha Services: Education Outreach Back to Top Central Valley California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation 2210 K St #201 Sacramento, CA 95816 (916) 978-3410 Special phone number designated for PC questions (916) 446-7902 www.worldreliefsacramento.org County: Sacramento Languages: Cantonese, English, Mixteco, Spanish Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach UFW Foundation 3002 Whittier Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90023 877-881-8281 www.ufwfoundation.org County: Fresno, Kern, Kings, Madera, Merced, Monterey, San Benito, Santa Barbara, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, Tulare, Ventura Languages: English, Spanish Services: Consultation/Intake, Education Outreach California Human Development 631 E Oak Street Lodi, CA 95240 (209) 331-2081 www.Californiahumandevelopment.org County: San Joaquin Languages: English, Spanish, Inquire for other languages Services: Education Outreach The Fresno Center 4879 E. Kings Canyon Rd. Fresno, CA 93727 (559) 255-8395 https://fresnocenter.org County: Fresno Languages: English, Spanish, Laotian, Hmong, Spanish, Khmer Services: Education Outreach Education and Leadership Foundation 4290 East Ashlan Avenue Fresno, CA 93726 (559) 291-5428 www.education-leadership.org County: Fresno, Merced, Kern Languages: Spanish Services: Education Outreach Greater Los Angeles Area Coalition for Humane Immigrant Rights (CHIRLA) 1225 In Home Supportive Services Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Benefits & Services Adult Services In Home Supportive Services In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Program The In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program provides in-home assistance to eligible aged, blind, and disabled individuals as an alternative to out-of-home care and enables recipients to remain safely in their own homes. Who is it For: Eligibility criteria for all IHSS applicants and recipients: You must also be a California resident. You must have a Medi-Cal eligibility determination. You must live at home or an abode of your own choosing (acute care hospital, long-term care facilities, and licensed community care facilities are not considered "own home"). You must submit a completed Health Care Certification form. How the program works: A county social worker will interview you at your home to determine your eligibility and need for IHSS. Based on your ability to safely perform certain tasks for yourself, the social worker will assess the types of services you need and the number of hours the county will authorize for each of these services. This assessment will include information given by you and, if appropriate, by your family, friends, physician, or other licensed health care professional. A completed Health Care Certification (SOC 873) must be received by the county prior to authorization of services. You will be notified if IHSS has been approved or denied. If denied, you will be notified of the reason for the denial. If approved, you will be notified of the services and the number of hours per month which have been authorized for you. If you are approved for IHSS, you must hire someone (your individual provider) to perform the authorized services. You are considered your provider's employer and, therefore, it is your responsibility to hire, train, supervise, and fire this individual. If your county has contracted IHSS providers, you may choose to have services provided by the contractor. If your county has homemaker employees, you may receive services from a county homemaker. Understanding IHSS: This four-part video series is designed to provide introductory information about the IHSS program. Introduction to the IHSS Program Understanding IHSS Eligibility and the Application Process Understanding IHSS Recipient and Provider Responsibilities Understanding the Needs Assessment How are IHSS payments made? You may contact the social worker assigned to your case to determine the IHSS hourly rate in your county. Because unions negotiate with the employer of record in each county, the wage rates may vary from county to county. The State issues all checks for individual provider payments. If the provider qualifies, the State withholds the applicable amounts for disability insurance and Social Security taxes. Needs Assessments IHSS assessments are completed during home visits at the initial intake assessment and annual reassessments. Recipients may request for a reassessment of need at any time if their needs or circumstances change. County social workers continuously monitor recipients’ cases and have frequent contact with recipients to ensure their needs are appropriately met through program services. IHSS social workers complete a needs assessment for each applicant or recipient using the following criteria: the Functional Index Rankings, the Annotated Assessment Criteria, and the Hourly Task Guidelines (HTGs). Service Authorizations Service authorizations are assessed during the needs assessment, which is a comprehensive review of the recipient’s medical history/diagnosis, medications/purpose, emergency contacts, physicians’ information, household composition, functional index rankings, mini-mental health assessment, necessary referrals to Adult Protective Services (APS), Child Protective Services (CPS), Fraud, community services, etc., language preferences and whether an interpreter is needed, and a full biopsychosocial assessment. The social worker needs to document all service needs and justify service authorizations in the case narrative. How to Apply: To apply for IHSS, complete an application and submit it to your county IHSS Office . SOC 295 - Application For Social Services Translations: SOC 295 Armenian (pdf) SOC 295 Armenian LP (pdf) SOC 295 Cambodian (pdf) SOC 295 Cambodian LP (pdf) SOC 295 Chinese (pdf) SOC 295 Chinese LP (pdf) SOC 295 Farsi/Dari (pdf) SOC 295 Farsi/Dari LP (pdf) SOC 295 Korean (pdf) SOC 295 Korean LP (pdf) SOC 295 Russian (pdf) SOC 295 Russian LP (pdf) SOC 295 Spanish (pdf) SOC 295 Spanish LP (pdf) SOC 295 Tagalog (pdf) SOC 295 Tagalog LP (pdf) SOC 295 Vietnamese (pdf) SOC 295 Vietnamese LP (pdf) Language Access at CDSS: You have the right to free and timely oral interpretation, sign language services, and written translations of English-language content. State and Federal law requires us to provide you with free interpretation services and to translate information for individuals who have limited English proficiency (LEP). This is to make sure you understand your benefits, rights, and responsibilities and can fully participate in our programs. We must provide effective communication so that individuals who are LEP can use our government services and programs. We prohibit discrimination in the delivery of public services. IHSS Program Celebrates Over 50 Years of Supporting Californians Resources Adult Protective Services IHSS for Children IHSS Recipient Resource IHSS Provider Resource IHSS Stakeholder Resource IHSS Emergency Resources IHSS Program Integrity Report Abuse or Suspect Fraud? Adult Protective Services hotline: 1-(833) 401-0832. Individuals can enter their 5-digit ZIP code to be connected to their county Adult Protective Services staff, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day. Child Abuse hotline: California Counties Child Abuse Reporting Telephone numbers links IHSS Fraud Hotline: 1-(888) 717-8302, IHSS Medical Fraud and Elder Abuse complaint line: 1-(800) 722-0432 or click on the link Medi-Cal Fraud and Abuse Resources Fee Restrictions Health care providers and clinics shall not charge a fee to a patient for filling out any forms related to an IHSS applicant’s eligibility determination or providing information responsive to forms that support a claim or appeal regarding eligibility for a public benefit program ( Health and Safety Code Section 123114 ). Prohibited form fees should be reported to Adult Programs Division, Policy and Quality Assurance Branch, Policy and Operations Bureau at (916) 651-5350. Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   County IHSS Offices Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs IHSS County IHSS Offices County IHSS Offices The following are County IHSS program websites. There are a few sites that do not have IHSS details, however you can use the links below to find the appropriate Social Services office contact information. County IHSS Program Websites Alameda County Alpine County Amador County Butte County Calaveras County Colusa County Contra Costa County Del Norte County El Dorado County Fresno County Glenn County Humbolt County Imperial County Inyo County Kern County Kings County Lake County Lassen County Los Angeles County Madera County Marin County Mariposa County Mendocino County Merced County Modoc County Mono County Monterey County Napa County Nevada County Orange County Placer County Plumas County Riverside County Sacramento County San Benito County San Bernardino County San Diego County San Francisco County San Joaquin County San Luis Obispo County San Mateo County Santa Barbara County Santa Clara County Santa Cruz County Shasta County Sierra County Siskiyou County Solano County Sonoma County Stanislaus County Sutter County Tehama County Trinity County Tulare County Tuolumne County Ventura County Yolo County Yuba County Quick Links Get Services IHSS Medi-Cal Offices County Public Authority IHSS Recipients: IHSS Training/Information - Resources Fact Sheets Educational Videos IHSS Providers: How to Become an IHSS Provider How to Appeal if You are Denied IHSS Provider Resources IHSS Timesheet Issues/Questions: IHSS Service Desk for Providers & Recipients, (866) 376-7066 Suspect Fraud? IHSS Fraud Hotline: 888-717-8302 Help Stop Medi-Cal Fraud and Abuse Provider Fraud and Elder Abuse complaint line: 1-(800)-722-0432 Fee Restrictions Health care providers and clinics shall not charge a fee to a patient for filling out any forms related to an IHSS applicant’s eligibility determination or providing information responsive to forms that support a claim or appeal regarding eligibility for a public benefit program ( Health and Safety Code Section 123114 ). Prohibited form fees should be reported to Adult Programs Division, Policy and Quality Assurance Branch, Policy, and Operations Bureau at (916) 651-5350. Adult Protective Services Get Services APS County APS Offices Get Services CAPI Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   Translation Disclaimer Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Translation Disclaimer CDSS Translate disclaimer This Google™ translation feature is provided for informational purposes only. The California Department of Social Services is unable to guarantee the accuracy of this translation and is therefore not liable for any inaccurate information resulting from the translation application tool. Please consult with a translator for accuracy if you are relying on the translation or are using this site for official business. If you have any questions, please email us at [email protected] . Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California   Foster Care Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs Foster Care Foster Care Thousands of children in California's foster care system require temporary out-of-home care because of parental neglect, abuse, or exploitation. The largest percentages are African American and Latino children. Some stay in foster care for weeks; some for years. The children are of all ages and varying needs. Foster parents provide a supportive and stable family for children who cannot live with their birth parents until family problems are resolved. In most cases, foster parents work with social services staff to reunite the child with birth parents. Foster parents often provide care to many different children. A license is required to operate a foster home. The process requires a licensing worker to visit your home and meet with you and other family members. Minimum personal, safety and space requirements are required by law. Foster parents work with social services staff to determine the type of child best suited for their home (i.e., age, health issues, and gender). Foster parents receive a monthly payment to feed, clothe, and meet the material needs of the children placed in their care. Medical and dental coverage is provided through the Medi-Cal program. For working parents, appropriate child care arrangements must be made by the foster parents. How to Become a Foster Parent Foster Parent Frequently Asked Questions Programs Apprenticeship Pathways Program Approved Relative Caregiver (ARC) Funding Option Program California Kinship Navigator California Wraparound Services Child and Family Teams (CFTs) Family Urgent Response System (FURS) Family Reunification and Pathways to Permanency Foster Care Audits & Rates Foster Youth Education Healthy Sexual Development Interstate Compact on the Placement of Children (ICPC) Kinship Care Kinship Guardianship Assistance Payment Program (Kin-Gap) Kinship Support Services Program (KSSP) Pathways to Well-Being (Katie A.) Resource Family Approval Program (RFA) Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, and Expression (SOGIE) Specialized Care Transition Age Youth AB 12 Extended Foster Care Program and Benefits Chafee Educational and Training Vouchers Program (ETV) Credit Reporting for Foster Youth Foster Youth Tax Credit (English/Spanish) Independent Living Program (ILP) National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD) Resources for Transition Age Youth with Disabilities Transition Age Youth Conference Transitional Housing Programs for Current and Former Foster Youth Projects Child and Family Teams (CFTs) Continuum of Care Reform (CCR) Foster Parent Recruitment, Retention, and Support Funding Opportunity (FPRRS) Missing Youth Protocols Provider Time Study Project Quality Improvement Project (Psychotropic Medication) Title IV-E Waiver California Well-Being Project Resources & Information California Kinship Navigator Center for Excellence in Family Finding, Engagement, and Support Foster Care and Adoptive Resource Families Recruitment and Training Foster Care Education Travel Reimbursement Brochure Foster Family Agencies Foster Family Home Licensing Contacts/State Foster Youth Wellness Resources FSH Fund Information Group Homes Kin-Gap Frequently Asked Questions Multiethnic Placement Act and Interethnic Adoption Provisions (MEPA-IEP) Peer Partner Programs Presumptive Transfer Public Health Nurse Standards of Practice Addendum Resource Parent Guide Senate Bill 1064 -The Reuniting Immigrant Families Act Tribal Background Check Resources and Information Updates on Unaccompanied Immigrant Children Contact Us Family Permanency & Support Services Branch 744 P Street, MS 8-13-78 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 651-7465 Contact Your County Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   Conditions of Use Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Conditions of Use Conditions of Use Use Policy Thank you for visiting the California Department of Social Services website and reviewing our Use Policy. You should also be aware that CDSS has a Privacy Policy , also available on this website. CDSS wants you to know about the collection, use, security, and access to information that may be obtained through use of this website. By visiting this website, you are accepting the policies and practices described in this Notice. This Notice covers the following topics: Personal Information and Choice A Special Note About Children Information Collected and How it is Used What Happens to Information You Submit to Us Use of Internet Request for Assistance Form Information Surveys If You Send Us an E-Mail Order Forms Public Disclosure Personal Information Automatic Collection of Information/Cookies Security Links to Other Sites Limitation of Liability Ownership Site Contacts Please note that this Use Policy is subject to change without notice, and that it reflects CDSS' current business practices. Personal Information and Choice "Personal information" is information about a natural person that identifies or describes an individual, including, but not limited to, his or her name, social security number, physical description, home address, home telephone number, education, financial matters, and medical or employment history, readily identifiable to that specific individual. A domain name or Internet Protocol address is not considered personal information, however, it is considered "electronically collected personal information." According to Government Code § 11015.5., "electronically collected personal information" means any information that is maintained by an agency that identifies or describes an individual user, including, but not limited to: his or her name social security number physical description home address home telephone number education financial matters medical or employment history password electronic mail address information that reveals any network location or identity, but excludes any information manually submitted to a State agency by a user, whether electronically or in written form information on or relating to individuals who are users, serving in a business capacity, including, but not limited to, business owners, officers, or principals of that business. "Electronically collected personal information" that we automatically collect includes your domain name or Internet Protocol address, and statistical information about which web pages you visit. If you voluntarily participate in an activity that asks for specific information (i.e., completing a request for assistance, personalizing the content of the website, sending an email, or participating in a survey) more detailed data will be collected. If you choose not to participate in these activities, your choice will in no way affect your ability to use any other feature of the website. If any type of personal information is requested on the website or volunteered by the user, State law, including the Information Practices Act of 1977, Government Code § 11015.5., the federal Privacy Act of 1974, and the Welfare and Institutions Code § 10850 may protect it. However, this information may be a public record once you provide it, and may be subject to public inspection and copying if not otherwise protected by federal or State law. Additionally, CDSS is required to adhere to a privacy policy , accessible on this website. A Special Note About Children Children are not eligible to use services that require submission of personal information, and we require that minors (under the age of 18) do not submit any personal information to us. This includes submitting personal information to CDSS as part of a user profile or personalization profile. If you are a minor, you can use these services only if used together with your parents or guardians. If you are a minor, you should seek guidance from your parents. If CDSS decides to begin collecting personal information from children, it will notify parents that it is being requested, disclose the reasons for collecting it, and disclose our intended use of it. CDSS will seek parental consent before collecting any personally identifiable information. If it does collect it, parents may request information on the type of data being collected, view their child's information, and, if they choose, prohibit CDSS from making further use of their child's information. CDSS will not provide personal information about children to third parties. Information Collected and How it is Used We do collect personal information directly from individuals who volunteer to use some of our services. Collection of this information is required to deliver the specific services, but use of these services is voluntary. The information we automatically collect or store is used to improve the content of our web services and to help us understand how people are using our services. This information does not identify you personally and is used for gathering website statistics. The information we automatically collect and store in our logs about your visit helps us to analyze our website to continually improve the value of the materials available. Our website logs do not identify a visitor by personal information, and we make no attempt to link other websites with the individuals that browse CDSS' website. Government Code § 11015.5.(a)(6) prohibits all state agencies from distributing or selling any electronically collected personal information, as defined above, about users to any third party without the permission of the user. CDSS does not sell any "electronically collected personal information." Any distribution of "electronically collected personal information" will be solely for the purposes for which it was provided to us. CDSS may provide or distribute certain lists and statistical reports of regulatory information as provided by law, but no personal information is sold or distributed, and all relevant legal protections still apply to the CDSS' websites. What Happens to Information You Submit to Us If you choose to submit information to us, the information will be transmitted through secure lines to our departmental database. Any private information will only be used for the purposes for which it was provided and will not be shared with another entity except as prescribed by law. Please see our Privacy Policy for additional information. Use of Internet Request for Assistance Form Information Any information you provide to us will only be shared with entities involved in your case as necessary. Information you provide may be included with other consumers' information to be used for statistical reporting, trending data, and/or investigative actions. For example, we may need to retain information that becomes part of an enforcement action or consumer complaint case for a period of time after the closing date of the case. If you provide us with information regarding an issue that does not fall within our regulatory jurisdiction, we may refer your information to the appropriate local, State, or federal agency on your behalf. Surveys If during your visit to the CDSS' website you participate in a survey or send an e-mail, the following additional information will be collected: The email address and contents of the email; Information volunteered in response to the survey. The information collected is not lim Golden Bear Pass Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS GoldenBearPass Golden Bear Pass Access to State Parks California’s state parks offer a fun, affordable, and healthy way to connect with family, friends, and the outdoors. The Outdoors for All initiative aims to make California’s state parks accessible to all residents, ensuring families can enjoy nature’s benefits regardless of income. In support of California’s Outdoors for All initiative, the Department of Parks and Recreation (State Parks) and the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) improved the application process to make it more accessible and easier for all California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) and Tribal TANF families to receive their free Golden Bear Pass and enjoy the benefits of the outdoors. This free pass provides free vehicle day-use access to over 200 California State Parks-operated units. The Golden Bear passes are valid from issuance until December 31 of the year in which the pass was issued. How to get your pass CalWORKs recipients (only): Sign up for the free Golden Bear Pass, by clicking the button link provided below. Once CDSS confirms your information and eligibility, State Parks will print and mail your Golden Bear Pass to you! Apply Here Tribal TANF recipients (only): Please apply through your Tribal TANF administrator listed in the button link below. *Please note: California State Parks is not currently accepting mail-in or in-person applications. Apply Here More Information & Resources Frequently Asked Questions Golden Bear Pass List of Parks Flyer for CalWORKs Families The Adventure Pass Do you have a fourth grader in your family? If so, we invite you to add to your child’s school curriculum by visiting 19 select state park units for FREE via an Adventure Pass. Learn more at parks.ca.gov/AdventurePass . Contact Us CDSS Outreach Team 744 P Street, MS 8-8-33 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 651-0515 [email protected] CalWORKs Outreach Helpline 1-888-445-1955 Apply for the Golden Bear Pass Quick Links CDSS Privacy Policy Outreach Campaigns Reporting CalWORKS CalFRESH Child Care Guaranteed Income Exemption Requests Statewide Outreach Advisory Roundtable Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California -->   Home | California Dept. of Social Services Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Find a County Office Apply for Cash Aid Apply for Food & Nutrition In-Home Supportive Services Find Licensed Care Report Abuse Request Hearing Report Fraud Headlines and Hot Topics H.R. 1 to Result in Changes to CalFresh, Medi-Cal A new federal law, H.R. 1, will reduce who is eligible for the CalFresh food program and will cut the amount of CalFresh benefits that some people receive. Your county will let you know if and when these changes affect you. Get more information in English and Spanish regarding recent changes and other changes that will take effect on June 1, 2026. For information on changes to Medi-Cal, visit the Department of Health Care Services website . CDSS Roadmap for Facility Licensing The Community Care Licensing Division (CCLD) has step-by-step resources to guide applicants through the licensing process. Help is available for Adult and Senior Care Program [PDF] , Child Care Program , Children’s Residential Program [PDF] , and Home Care Services applicants. Access a general license overview guide on the CCLD webpage [PDF] . Protect Your EBT Benefits Californians are encouraged to take steps to prevent Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) theft. The California Department of Social Services created videos with security tips for EBT cardholders ( English , Spanish ). If you think your benefits may have been stolen, immediately call the customer service telephone number on the back of your EBT card, (877) 328-9677, or contact your county social services agency. A mobile app and web-based portal called ebtEDGE provides EBT cardholders in California with tools to protect their CalFresh and CalWORKs benefits. The free app is available for download in the Apple App store and Google Play store . Web-based access is also available. The Department offers videos about the app ( English , Spanish ). State Offers Tips to Communities Impacted by Federal Immigration Raids California is offering support for communities experiencing federal immigration raids, sharing new “know your rights” resources with the community. The Governor’s Office has released new fact sheets in English and Spanish . SUN Bucks Summer Food Program for Kids SUN Bucks provides families in California with $120 for each eligible child to help buy groceries during the summer months. Most eligible children receive SUN Bucks automatically each year. Families who do not receive benefits automatically can apply through their child’s school or school administrator’s office. Families can submit applications for summer 2026 until August 31, 2026. For more information on SUN Bucks, visit the SUN Bucks webpage . CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot Program Returns The CalFresh Fruit & Vegetable EBT Pilot Project has returned. Eligible CalFresh households will once again receive a dollar-for-dollar match up to $60 per month when purchasing fresh fruits and vegetables at participating retailers and farmers’ markets. All current and former CalFresh households with an active EBT food balance who shop at participating retailers and farmers’ markets are eligible. A total of 92 retail locations, mostly in Southern California, are participating in the pilot. More information and participating locations . Free Access to State Parks and Beaches for CalWORKs and Tribal TANF Recipients California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) and Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) recipients can enjoy a free Golden Bear Pass to access more than 200 California state parks and beaches. This pass provides free vehicle day-use access and will be valid until December 31 of the year in which the pass was issued. Learn more: https://cdss.ca.gov/goldenbearpass What to Know About Public Charge The U.S. Department of Homeland Security published a final public charge rule that went into effect December 23, 2022, that allows immigrants and their loved ones across California to seek and accept medical care, food assistance, and public housing without fear or confusion about public charge consequences. Under the current rule, participation in CalFresh, public housing, or Medi-Cal (except for long-term care), is not be considered as part of the public charge determination. Information about the current policy is available on this California Health and Human Services Agency (CalHHS) webpage . In 2025, the Trump administration proposed a new rule to rescind the 2022 public charge regulation, but this proposal is not yet in effect. The CalHHS, along with its departments, submitted a formal comment letter opposing the proposed rule and outlining the harmful impacts it would have on the health and well-being of Californians. We encourage individuals and their families to consult an immigration attorney and understand eligibility requirements for each program, to understand the benefits and any potential risk of enrolling in public benefits programs. Individuals in California seeking assistance are encouraged to consult one of many State-funded organizations that provide legal services to immigrants. Here is a list of immigration services providers funded by CDSS. Taking Steps to Better Serve Foster Youth California has made transformative changes to the way the State cares for children and youth in the foster care system. The Continuum of Care Reform (CCR) was founded upon the collective belief among stakeholders involved in California’s child welfare system that all children served by the foster care system need, deserve, and have an ability to be part of a loving family, and not to grow up in a congregate setting . When CCR implementation began in 2017, an interim foster care rate structure was created. However, statute required a payment structure by January 1, 2025. To this end, the Department recently unveiled a new, permanent rate structure , which was informed by feedback from current and former foster youth, county placing agencies, Tribes, and other interested parties. California is restructuring rates so that they are based on the needs of each child, not placement type. By restructuring the system this way, California can help address historical racial inequities and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and trauma. The new rates will take effect beginning July 1, 2027. Read additional information and a detailed summary on the new rate structure. For more information about programs, projects, and resources for foster youth and foster youth caregivers, visit the CDSS foster care webpage . Also access an issue brief on the efforts underway in California to better meet the needs of individual foster youth and improve California’s foster care system. Progress Report: California’s Master Plan for Early Learning and Care California has made significant progress in implementing the Master Plan for Early Learning and Care, which provided a road map for building a stronger, more equitable early learning and child care system. Access a progress report . Community Care Expansion Grants Expand Housing Nearly $570 million in Community Care Expansion (CCE) program grants have been awarded to new housing projects across the state. CCE projects – many of which are already underway – will create new housing at licensed adult and senior care residences, permanent supportive housing sites, and other housing options, including a first-of-its-kind housing project on Tribal lands for elders. These housing options will offer a Accessibility Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Accessibility Web Content Accessibility We believe the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) website meets "AA" compliance of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2. In addition, this site satisfies Section 508 , Subpart B, Subsection 1194.22, Guidelines A-P of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as revised in 1998. CDSS is committed to improved accessibility for all Californians. CDSS accepts no responsibility for the content or accessibility of the external websites or external documents linked to on this website. If you have difficulty accessing any material on this website, please contact the [email protected] or (916) 651-8848 and provide the URL (web address) or other relevant information on the material you would like to access and your preferred format for accessing the information. We will work with you to make the information available. Public Notice Under The Americans With Disabilities Act Website Accessibility Features Our website has many features that are intended to make the experience of interacting with our website positive and productive for all users, including those with disabilities. Accessible and Usable Design Here we provide a brief list of the accessibility and usability features included in the California Department of Technology (CDT) internet website, and where appropriate, how to find them and use them. Common Look and Feel; Simple Design Most pages on the CDT website have a similar layout. This makes site navigation easier. Overall, the site is primarily text-based and has a simple, straight-forward design. "Skip To" Links A special link is placed at the top of most pages on the site that allows assistive technology to skip or “jump over” the site navigation. Accessible Images Images that are included on the CDT website have “alternative text,” which many assistive technologies can read to the user. Adjustable Text Size Our website uses relative font sizes, which allow site visitors to increase the text size on webpages. The text size can be increased with the web browser’s text-size adjustment feature. For more information about text-size adjustments within a specific browser type and version, site visitors should consult available help in their browser. Effective Search Engine The CDT website search engine provides relevant and easy to use search results, allowing quick navigation to the desired content. Video Captions and Text Transcripts Video files on the CDT website have captions for the hearing impaired. Many use YouTube where viewer can find help with seeing the text and Windows Media Player must be configured to turn ON captions since captions are turned OFF by default. Links to video files without embedded captions have adjacent text transcripts. Style Sheets Cascading Style Sheets are used throughout the site for layout, design, and style. This allows the CDT site to be displayed in a readable fashion on different browser-enabled devices. Standard Browser Usability Features Note: Addition of this content is required under California Technology Letter 15-05. This content in this section is derived from the Accessibility Section of the CA.gov Webtools Site . Contrast Adjustments Font Adjustments Keyboard Shortcuts Contrast Adjustments High contrast is necessary for many users. The State’s websites uses style sheets and some of the best contrast combinations, black on white, white on dark green, or blue on white. However, some users can see better using high contrast reverse types, such as white on black, or different colors. Below are guidelines for some common web browsers on how the user can customize their own web browser to better view all webpages. Internet Explorer Select the “Tools” menu. Select “internet Options”. Under the “General” tab, select “Accessibility”. Place a check mark in the box to “Ignore colors specified on webpages” and select the “OK” box. This will return you to the “General” tab. There select the “Colors” box and un-check the “use Windows colors” box. Use the “Text”, “Background”, “Unvisited Links”, and “Visited Links” boxes to select the colors desired (example: white text and black background). Select the “OK” box and then the “OK” box on the “General” tab and the colors should change on the browser. Firefox Select the “Tools” menu. Select “Options”. Select the “Content” tab. Select “Colors”. Select colors desired for “Text”, “Background”, “Unvisited Links”, and “Visited Links” (example: white text and black background) and uncheck “Allow pages to choose their own colors, instead of my selections above”. Select the “OK” box, and then the “OK” box again. The colors should change on the browser. Google Chrome Accessibility Low-Vision Support such as High Contrast and Custom Color Support There are a number of steps you can take to configure Chrome to run with custom contrast and colors: Install a Chrome Extension which allows you to specify your own custom color combinations. Quick page action to apply/remove styling overrides on a per page, per domain or global basis (overriding webpage colors) Optional background, text, links and visited links color configuration Option for showing/hiding images Option for showing/hiding Flash objects Use a Chrome Theme for some control of the color scheme of the Chrome user interface. Opera Fonts and Colors for Unstyled Webpages Sometimes, webpages do not have a specified style for fonts, background color, or link colors. We have selected some default fonts and colors for you, but you may prefer to choose your own. To do this, select Settings > Preferences > webpages and select your preferred fonts, background color, or colors for normal and visited links. You can also enable or disable an underline for links. Themes A theme is a color scheme of the buttons and background images in the browser. You can apply a theme to Opera to entirely change the way Opera looks. To try a new theme: Go to https://addons.opera.com/en/themes/. (Search for Contrast theme) Alternatively, select Appearance > Themes. Select “Find more themes. The available themes display. Choose one you like and select the “Add to Opera” button. The theme is applied so you can see if you like it. In the bar that displays at the top of the window, select either “Done X” to confirm the theme change and keep it, or “Undo” and everything will be back to the way it was. If you don’t make a decision after a short while, the theme is applied automatically. Manage Themes To see a list of all of the themes you have installed, select Appearance > Themes. You can delete or switch themes, or add new ones by selecting the “Find More Themes” button. Safari OS X Yosemite: Display pane of Accessibility preferences Make items on the screen easier to see and the display easier to read. To open this pane, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, select Accessibility, then select Display. Invert colors : Invert the colors on your display. For example, text appears in white on a black background. Use grayscale : Remove colors from the screen Differentiate without color : Use shapes, in addition to or instead of color, to convey status or information Increase contrast : Increase the contrast of items on the screen (such as borders around buttons or boxes) without changing the contrast of the screen itself. Reduce transparency : Replace the transparent effect used on some backgrounds in OS X with a darker background, to improve contras Accessibility Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Accessibility Web Content Accessibility We believe the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) website meets "AA" compliance of the World Wide Web Consortium (W3C), Web Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.2. In addition, this site satisfies Section 508 , Subpart B, Subsection 1194.22, Guidelines A-P of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 as revised in 1998. CDSS is committed to improved accessibility for all Californians. CDSS accepts no responsibility for the content or accessibility of the external websites or external documents linked to on this website. If you have difficulty accessing any material on this website, please contact the [email protected] or (916) 651-8848 and provide the URL (web address) or other relevant information on the material you would like to access and your preferred format for accessing the information. We will work with you to make the information available. Public Notice Under The Americans With Disabilities Act Website Accessibility Features Our website has many features that are intended to make the experience of interacting with our website positive and productive for all users, including those with disabilities. Accessible and Usable Design Here we provide a brief list of the accessibility and usability features included in the California Department of Technology (CDT) internet website, and where appropriate, how to find them and use them. Common Look and Feel; Simple Design Most pages on the CDT website have a similar layout. This makes site navigation easier. Overall, the site is primarily text-based and has a simple, straight-forward design. "Skip To" Links A special link is placed at the top of most pages on the site that allows assistive technology to skip or “jump over” the site navigation. Accessible Images Images that are included on the CDT website have “alternative text,” which many assistive technologies can read to the user. Adjustable Text Size Our website uses relative font sizes, which allow site visitors to increase the text size on webpages. The text size can be increased with the web browser’s text-size adjustment feature. For more information about text-size adjustments within a specific browser type and version, site visitors should consult available help in their browser. Effective Search Engine The CDT website search engine provides relevant and easy to use search results, allowing quick navigation to the desired content. Video Captions and Text Transcripts Video files on the CDT website have captions for the hearing impaired. Many use YouTube where viewer can find help with seeing the text and Windows Media Player must be configured to turn ON captions since captions are turned OFF by default. Links to video files without embedded captions have adjacent text transcripts. Style Sheets Cascading Style Sheets are used throughout the site for layout, design, and style. This allows the CDT site to be displayed in a readable fashion on different browser-enabled devices. Standard Browser Usability Features Note: Addition of this content is required under California Technology Letter 15-05. This content in this section is derived from the Accessibility Section of the CA.gov Webtools Site . Contrast Adjustments Font Adjustments Keyboard Shortcuts Contrast Adjustments High contrast is necessary for many users. The State’s websites uses style sheets and some of the best contrast combinations, black on white, white on dark green, or blue on white. However, some users can see better using high contrast reverse types, such as white on black, or different colors. Below are guidelines for some common web browsers on how the user can customize their own web browser to better view all webpages. Internet Explorer Select the “Tools” menu. Select “internet Options”. Under the “General” tab, select “Accessibility”. Place a check mark in the box to “Ignore colors specified on webpages” and select the “OK” box. This will return you to the “General” tab. There select the “Colors” box and un-check the “use Windows colors” box. Use the “Text”, “Background”, “Unvisited Links”, and “Visited Links” boxes to select the colors desired (example: white text and black background). Select the “OK” box and then the “OK” box on the “General” tab and the colors should change on the browser. Firefox Select the “Tools” menu. Select “Options”. Select the “Content” tab. Select “Colors”. Select colors desired for “Text”, “Background”, “Unvisited Links”, and “Visited Links” (example: white text and black background) and uncheck “Allow pages to choose their own colors, instead of my selections above”. Select the “OK” box, and then the “OK” box again. The colors should change on the browser. Google Chrome Accessibility Low-Vision Support such as High Contrast and Custom Color Support There are a number of steps you can take to configure Chrome to run with custom contrast and colors: Install a Chrome Extension which allows you to specify your own custom color combinations. Quick page action to apply/remove styling overrides on a per page, per domain or global basis (overriding webpage colors) Optional background, text, links and visited links color configuration Option for showing/hiding images Option for showing/hiding Flash objects Use a Chrome Theme for some control of the color scheme of the Chrome user interface. Opera Fonts and Colors for Unstyled Webpages Sometimes, webpages do not have a specified style for fonts, background color, or link colors. We have selected some default fonts and colors for you, but you may prefer to choose your own. To do this, select Settings > Preferences > webpages and select your preferred fonts, background color, or colors for normal and visited links. You can also enable or disable an underline for links. Themes A theme is a color scheme of the buttons and background images in the browser. You can apply a theme to Opera to entirely change the way Opera looks. To try a new theme: Go to https://addons.opera.com/en/themes/. (Search for Contrast theme) Alternatively, select Appearance > Themes. Select “Find more themes. The available themes display. Choose one you like and select the “Add to Opera” button. The theme is applied so you can see if you like it. In the bar that displays at the top of the window, select either “Done X” to confirm the theme change and keep it, or “Undo” and everything will be back to the way it was. If you don’t make a decision after a short while, the theme is applied automatically. Manage Themes To see a list of all of the themes you have installed, select Appearance > Themes. You can delete or switch themes, or add new ones by selecting the “Find More Themes” button. Safari OS X Yosemite: Display pane of Accessibility preferences Make items on the screen easier to see and the display easier to read. To open this pane, choose Apple menu > System Preferences, select Accessibility, then select Display. Invert colors : Invert the colors on your display. For example, text appears in white on a black background. Use grayscale : Remove colors from the screen Differentiate without color : Use shapes, in addition to or instead of color, to convey status or information Increase contrast : Increase the contrast of items on the screen (such as borders around buttons or boxes) without changing the contrast of the screen itself. Reduce transparency : Replace the transparent effect used on some backgrounds in OS X with a darker background, to improve contras Information Resources Guide Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Information & Resources Information Resources Guide Information Resources Guide Welcome to the Information Resources Guide This website is intended to assist our business partners in understanding policies and practices of programs which fall under the authority of the California Department of Social Service. For more information and resources please select the program information you are seeking from the list below. A list of programs in alphabetical order is available in the column to your right. Programs Adult Programs Adult Protective Services Case Management, Information and Payrolling System (CMIPS) Electronic Visit Verification Cash Assistance for Immigrants In-Home Supportive Services Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP) Cash Aid, Food, Child Care and Service Programs Afghan Arrival Response NEW! 2020 Income Tax Return Filing- Information and Resources CalFresh CalWORKs Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) Child Care and Development Child Care and Nutrition Programs (CDE Transition) Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Family Engagement and Empowerment Division Food Distribution Unit (FDU) Housing and Homelessness Programs Immigration Indian Health Clinic (IHC) Program Integrity Refugees Repatriation Statewide Automated Welfare System (SAWS) SUN Bucks Trafficking and Crime Victims Assistance Program (TCVAP) Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Community Care Licensing Community Care Licensing Administrator Certification Program Adult Care Licensing Care Provider Management Branch Child Care Licensing Children's Residential Licensing Continuing Care Retirement Communities Home Care Services Senior Care Licensing Child Welfare Programs Adoption Adoption Assistance Program Apprenticeship Pathways Caregiver Advocacy Network CFSD Letters and Notices CFSD Quarter Policy Guidance Webinars Child and Family Teams (CFTs) Child Fatality and Near Fatality Child Trafficking Response Unit Child Welfare Program Improvement Child Welfare Protection Child Welfare Services Case Management System Child Welfare Training Continuum of Care Reform Complex Care CWS Disaster Response Early Childhood Foster Care Foster Care Ombudsperson Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA) Hotline Office of Child Abuse Prevention Office of Tribal Affairs Resource Family Approval Program Safely Surrendered Baby Social Worker Empowerment Hotline Other Programs Appeals Case Management System Automated Assistance Claims Civil Rights NEW! Stop the Hate Program Funding Contracting Agency Audit Guidelines Deaf Access Program Disaster Services Branch Internal Audits Lifting Children and Families Out of Poverty Task Force Services to the Blind State Hearings Statewide Verification Hub Additional Resources Letters and Notices Legislation and Regulations Fiscal and Financial Information Forms and Brochures Major Initiative Timelines Program and Legislative Reports Research and Data Resources A to C Administrator Certification Program Adoption Adoption Assistance Program Adult Care Licensing Adult Protective Services Appeals Case Management System Automated Assistance Claims CalFresh CalWORKs Caregiver Advocacy Network Care Provider Management Bureau Cash Assistance for Immigrants Center for Excellence in Family Finding, Engagement, and Support Child Care and Development Child and Family Teams (CFTs) Child Care Licensing Child Fatality and Near Fatality Child Trafficking Response Unit Child Welfare Program Improvement Child Welfare Protection Child Welfare Services Case Management System Child Welfare Training Children's Residential Licensing Civil Rights Case Management, Information and Payrolling System (CMIPS) Community Care Licensing Continuing Care Retirement Community Continuum of Care Reform County Expense Claims (CEC) County Expense Claim Reporting Information System (CECRIS) CWS Disaster Response Resources D to Z Deaf Access Program Disaster Services Branch Document Search Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) Food Distribution Unit (FDU) Foster Care Foster Care Ombudsperson Home Care Services Housing Programs In-Home Supportive Services Immigration Indian Health Clinic (IHC) Internal Audits Office of Child Abuse Prevention Program Integrity Refugees Repatriation Resource Family Approval Program Safely Surrendered Baby Statewide Automated Welfare System (SAWS) Senior Care Licensing Services to the Blind Social Worker Empowerment Hotline Supplemental Security Income/State Supplementary Payment (SSI/SSP) State Hearings Trafficking and Crime Victims Assistance Program (TCVAP) Tribal Affairs Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   CDSS Foster Care Rate Reform Proposal Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal Home Letters/Regulations Forms/Brochures Fiscal/Financial Data Portal CDSS Programs Foster Care Foster Care Audits and Rates Foster Care Rate Reform Proposal Implementation of the Tiered Rate Structure Highlights California is restructuring rates so that they are based on the individual needs of each child, not the placement type. California’s tiered rate structure will provide youth in family settings the same level of funding to support care/supervision, strength building, and immediate needs at the child's assessed level of need, regardless of the placement type. Changes are designed to help address historical racial inequities and help break the cycle of intergenerational poverty and trauma. Background The interim rate structure created as part of CCR created a level of care system for children in family settings and a separate rate structure for those in congregate settings. Statute required the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) to establish an “ongoing payment structure no later than January 1, 2025”. To comply with the statutory deadline, the Tiered Rate Structure proposal was introduced on January 10, 2024, as part of the 2024-25 Governor’s Budget. In July of 2024 the Tiered Rate Structure passed as a part of Assembly Bill 161, the Health and Human Services Trailer Bill Language (TBL). The Foster Care Permanent Rate Structure payments will begin on July 1, 2027, or once automation is complete, whichever is later. The Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure Summary Development of the Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure Proposal Overview Documents on the Tiered Foster Care Rate Structure Bimonthly Implementation Newsletter Opportunities to Engage on Implementation and Previous Mtg. Materials Contact Us System of Care Branch (formerly Foster Care Audits and Rates Branch 744 P Street, MS 8-3-38 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 651-9152 Fiscal and Performance Audits Bureau 744 P Street, MS 8-3-23 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 653-1802 Foster Care Rates Bureau 744 P Street, MS 8-3-570 Sacramento, CA 95814 (916) 651-2752 Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 California Department of Social Services -->   Privacy Policy Accessibility help | Skip to Content Department of Social Services Social Services Site Notification: CDSS website will be unavailable for a Scheduled Maintenance from Saturday, May 30, 2020 at 10PM (PDT) through Sunday, May 31, 2020 at 2AM (PDT). We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. --> Menu Contact Search Disclaimer Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Home Benefits & Services Information & Resources Reporting Data Portal Careers With CDSS Privacy Policy CDSS-ISPO-5310.1-P001, Privacy Statement California Department of Social Services Privacy Statement Effective: June 2016 Revised: November 2022 The California Department of Social Services (CDSS or Department) is committed to promoting and protecting the privacy rights of individuals as enumerated in Article 1 of the California Constitution, the Information Practices Act of 1977, and other state and federal laws. It is the policy of CDSS to safeguard the privacy of personal information collected or maintained by the Department. CDSS’ information management practices are governed by the requirements of the following authorities and all other laws pertaining to information privacy: Government Code Section 11015.5 Health and Safety Code Section 1500 et seq. Information Practices Act - Civil Code Section 1798 et seq. Public Records Act - Government Code Section 6250 et seq. Safeguarding Information for the Financial Assistance Programs - 45 CFR Section 205.50 Statewide Administrative Manual (SAM) Section Privacy 5310 et seq. Statewide Information Management Manual (SIMM) 5310 - A & B. Welfare and Institutions Code Section 10850 et seq. CDSS follows these principles in collecting and managing personal information: CDSS collects personal information on individuals only as allowed by law to administer programs serving people across the state. Any subsequent use of the information shall be limited to and consistent with the fulfillment of those purposes and/or to make disclosures as required or authorized by law. Personal information, as defined in the Information Practices Act, is information that identifies or describes an individual, including, but not limited to: name, social security number, physical description, home address, home telephone number, education, financial matters, and medical or employment history. CDSS only collects personal information that is necessary and appropriate for the type of services requested. When filling out a form or survey, CDSS strives to tell people who are asked to provide information about the general uses of the information by CDSS. CDSS collects personal information directly from individuals who use one or more of the CDSS web sites to obtain services. Collection of this information is required to deliver specific services, however, use of the services is voluntary. CDSS does not disclose personal information. Personal information may not be disclosed, made available, or otherwise used for a purpose other than those specified, except with the consent of the subject of the personal information, or as required or authorized by law. People who provide personal information have the right to review that information. Individuals who provide personal information to CDSS have the right to review the information for accuracy and completeness and to request corrections or deletions. For personal information access requests, send an email to CDSS’ Public Inquiry and Response Unit at [email protected] and/or call (916) 651-8848. PIAR will direct you to the program representative who can help with your request. CDSS protects personal information. The Department takes precautions and security measures to protect the personal information collected or maintained by CDSS against loss, unauthorized access, use, modification, or disclosure. CDSS will not commercially distribute or sell any electronically collected personal information about users to any third party without the user’s written consent. CDSS collects electronic information from people who visit our Internet website. When you visit a CDSS website, site usage data is collected using JavaScript and cookies for the purpose of enhancing user experience. The JavaScript will not continue to run once you leave or close the website in your browser, and you can remove the cookies using tools in your browser. Some of the site usage data collected includes: the domain name or Internet Protocol address of the device used to access the CDSS website, the type of browser and operating system used, the date and time the website was visited, web pages displayed, page elements clicked, and forms interacted with. We do not collect home, business, or email addresses, or account information from persons who simply browse our Internet website. CDSS collects personal information about individuals through our website only if an individual provides such information to the Department voluntarily through forms or surveys. Electronically collected personal information is exempt from requests made under the Public Records Act. CDSS uses Google Analytics to help understand how visitors interact with the CDSS websites to improve each website. You can read Google’s security and privacy policies for Google Analytics. You can choose not to have your data used by Google Analytics by downloading their opt-out browser add-on. Selecting to opt out will not interfere with your ability to use the CDSS website. CDSS will provide additional information on our privacy policy if requested. If you have further questions, comments, or complaints about our privacy policy or policy compliance you may contact: CDSS Information Security & Privacy Officer 744 P Street MS 9-9-61 Sacramento, CA 95814 E-mail: [email protected] For more general information about online privacy and security, please see the California Department of Justice’s Online Privacy page . Back to Top   Accessibility   Accessibility Certification   Conditions of Use   Contact Us   Get Free Reader   Notice on Collection   Privacy Policy   --> Copyright © 2026 State of California -->