General Assistance Frequently Asked Questions
Is eligibility different for General Assistance and SonomaWORKS?
Yes. Parents or caretakers with children under 18 who live with them may be eligible for SonomaWORKS benefits if:
- they are U.S. citizens or meet residency requirements, and
- at least one of the child’s parents is unemployed, disabled, constantly absent or deceased.
If I qualify for General Assistance, how much will my monthly benefits be?
An Economic Assistance staff member will calculate the amount you can receive. The amount varies by how many people are in your household and other factors in your life situation. The maximum monthly benefit for a single person is $377.
How do I use my General Assistance benefits?
You receive some benefits on an ATM-style plastic card, called an Electronic Benefit Transfer or EBT card. Purchases can be made from stores that accept the EBT card or at ATMs displaying the QUEST logo. Rent benefits are paid directly to the landlord.
What should I do if my EBT card isn’t working?
Your card may not be active or there are no remaining benefits. Call the California Department of Social Services at (877) 328-9677 or TTY at (800) 735-2929.
How do I report that my EBT card is damaged, lost or stolen?
Report the problem as soon you can:
By phone:. You’ll be sent a free replacement card within three working days.
In-Person: Your card can be replaced immediately at:
- Economic Assistance, 2550 Paulin Drive, Santa Rosa
- Employment & Training, 2227 Capricorn Way, Suite 100, Santa Rosa
- Human Services South County Center, 5350 Old Redwood Highway, Suite 100, Petaluma
Can I receive CalFresh and Medi-Cal at the same time as General Assistance?
Yes. We can help you apply.
How do I keep my card PIN number from being stolen?
Don’t share your PIN with anyone. Never write it on the card or anything kept with the card. Never keep your Social Security number with your card or PIN to prevent identity theft.
What if I forget my PIN number? Or want to change it?
Either visit Economic Assistance to select another PIN, or call the customer service telephone number, (877) 328-9677. You need to provide information to verify your identity. Your new PIN will work with your current EBT card.