General Relief — Los Angeles County DPSS

County-funded cash aid for adults with almost nothing who cannot get state or federal cash aid. It can also connect you to housing and the Return to Residence program, which helps some people return to family in another place.

Why this place helps: It is the cash aid of last resort in LA County, and you can start it online or by phone instead of standing in line first.

Who it is for: Adults who have lived in Los Angeles County at least 15 days and intend to stay, are a U.S. citizen or a documented immigrant entitled to live in the U.S. permanently, and meet strict income and property limits. If you can work, aid lasts up to 9 months in a 12-month period and you must join the work program (START/GROW). If you cannot work, aid is not time-limited. You must agree to repay the county out of a future SSI award.

Hours: Call to ask today’s hours

Ask for: A General Relief application.

When you call, say: “I have no income and no other aid. I want to apply for General Relief.”

What to bring: A photo ID (you do not have to show it in person if you apply another way), your Social Security number, and proof of any income. The county will ask about your last 15 days of residency.

What to do: Apply at BenefitsCal.com or at any DPSS district office. Every application needs an interview, by phone or in person, so keep your phone on after you apply.

Address: Apply at any DPSS General Relief district office, online at BenefitsCal.com, or by phone

Phone: (866) 613-3777 (DPSS Customer Service Center)