While the physical locations of the Department of Public Social Services (DPSS) are temporarily unavailable, accessing essential services and Dpss Customer Service remains readily accessible. It’s important for individuals seeking or currently receiving benefits to understand that in-person visits are not necessary to apply for or manage their assistance. DPSS is actively ensuring continuity of service through various remote channels.
Online Grocery Access for CalFresh Recipients
An important update for CalFresh recipients is the ability to utilize their EBT cards for online grocery purchases at major retailers like Walmart and Amazon. This service facilitates convenient home delivery, particularly beneficial during times when mobility is limited or preferred. Orders of $35 or more qualify for free home delivery in eligible zip codes. Users should check the availability of delivery services in their specific area and anticipate potential delivery delays, as is common with many delivery services currently. New applicants for CalFresh benefits can initiate their application process by visiting the DPSS GetCalFresh website online.
Continued Support for Existing DPSS Customers
Medi-Cal Benefits
For current Medi-Cal recipients, benefit continuation is assured for March, April, and May 2020. It is crucial to note, however, that the standard renewal reporting requirements for Medi-Cal remain in effect. Failure to comply with these renewal procedures will result in benefit termination after the 90-day period. If a renewal packet has been received, it can be submitted either by mail or electronically through upload on the DPSS Website.
CalFresh, CalWORKs, General Relief, Refugee Cash Assistance, and Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI)
Recipients of CalFresh, CalWORKs, General Relief, Refugee Cash Assistance, or CAPI will experience uninterrupted benefit levels throughout March, April, and May 2020. Submission of SAR-7, QR-7, or recertification packets is not required during this period, and there is no need to contact DPSS to confirm benefit continuation. Recertification deadlines are extended by six months from the original due date. Beneficiaries will receive notification letters detailing their updated recertification schedules.
- For recertification originally due in March 2020, the new due date is September 2020.
- For recertification originally due in April 2020, the new due date is October 2020.
- For recertification originally due in May 2020, the new due date is November 2020.
It is anticipated that the regular submission of SAR-7 and QR-7 forms will resume starting in June 2020.
General Relief and CalWORKs Program Updates
For individuals receiving General Relief, benefits will continue without interruption through March, April, and May 2020, and the QR-7 submission requirement is waived during this time. Similarly, CalWORKs and General Relief Welfare-to-Work requirements are also waived for March, April, and May 2020.
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Information
In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) reassessments are temporarily suspended for 90 days. However, DPSS social workers are proactively reaching out to IHSS recipients to conduct assessments and welfare checks via telephone. While face-to-face interviews are still mandated by the State for new IHSS applications, DPSS is streamlining the process by conducting initial application steps over the phone and then scheduling the necessary in-person interview. To apply for IHSS, please call 1-888-944-4477. For IHSS-related inquiries, the IHSS Helpline can be reached at 1-888-822-9622.
Emergency CalFresh Allotment Details
Existing CalFresh customers will receive an automatic CalFresh Emergency Allotment added to their EBT cards. This emergency provision will increase CalFresh benefits up to the maximum allowable amount for eligible households, capped at six members. For instance, a single adult currently receiving $140 per month will receive an additional $54, bringing their total monthly benefit to the maximum of $194.
- March allotments were distributed starting in mid-April 2020.
- April allotments were distributed at the end of April 2020.
For the most current information, including precise dates for emergency allotment issuances, please refer to the DPSS website or DPSS social media channels.
Applying for Benefits Remotely
Individuals who have experienced job loss or require assistance can apply for benefits online through the DPSS website. For those applying for CalWORKs, General Relief, Refugee Cash Assistance, Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants, or CalFresh, submitting all required documentation with the application will allow DPSS to waive the application interview.
DPSS is currently accepting self-certification/attestation for photo-identification, residency, income, and expense requirements for all program applications. Detailed information about program requirements can be found on the DPSS website under the Programs & Services tab.
For immediate assistance or questions, please contact the DPSS Customer Service Center at 1-866-613-3777. DPSS is committed to providing ongoing support and accessible DPSS customer service during this period of temporary office closures.
