Apply for public assistance benefits (Medi-Cal/CalFresh/CalWORKs)

Apply

Need to know

You can apply online for free at BenefitsCal.com, in person at any of our locations, over the phone, by fax, or by mail.
BenefitsCal.com lets you apply for, view, manage, and renew benefits, upload documents, report changes, and connect with a caseworker.
BenefitsCal.com supports CalFresh, Medi-Cal and CMSP, CalWORKs, General Assistance or General Relief, Disaster CalFresh, and Refugee Cash Assistance.
Call center hours are Monday to Wednesday and Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m., and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. The call center is closed on Thursday.
If you are already enrolled in Medi-Cal, CalFresh, or CalWORKs, you can manage your benefits online at BenefitsCal.com
Marin County residents can apply for health coverage (Medi-Cal or CMSP) at any time.
You may be able to get CalFresh within 3 days through expedited or urgent service.

We may ask you for additional documents such as your photo ID, proof of income, proof of California residency, proof of assets such as bank statements, etc.
If we need additional information, we will reach out to you. Make sure you check your mail and messages.
You may be able to request retroactive health coverage. Make sure you let your worker know if you want to be screened for retroactive health coverage.

Go to BenefitsCal.com and apply for the programs you need, or
Go to BenefitsCal.com to manage your benefits if you're already receiving Medi-Cal, CalFresh, or CalWORKs
You can submit required reports, documents, verifications, etc. online at BenefitsCal.com

Visit one of our offices below (hours vary by location):
- 120 N. Redwood Dr., San Rafael, 94903
- 3240 Kerner Blvd., San Rafael, 94901
- 1 6th St., Point Reyes Station, 94956
You can call our Call Center at 877-410-8817 to ask about the best time to visit.

Mail a completed application (click here for English applications or here for Spanish applications), forms, reports, verifications, or other documents to P.O. Box 4160, San Rafael, CA 94913.

What's next content

If you apply for CalFresh or CalWORKs, you may need to complete an interview with an Eligibility Worker. We will review your application to determine if you qualify.
We will contact you if we need more information for your application. Make sure you check your mail and messages.
You will receive a notice about your eligibility once we have made a determination on your application.
You will receive a Benefits Identification Card (BIC) if you are eligible for health benefits. The BIC can be given to your healthcare provider whenever you need services.
You will receive an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card if you are eligible for CalFresh or CalWORKs. The EBT card can be used to purchase food at participating stores or access your cash benefits.
You can request a new Medi-Cal BIC by visiting one of our offices, requesting one online at BenefitsCal.com, calling our Call Center at 877-410-8817, or calling your worker.
You can request a new or replacement EBT card by visiting one of our offices, calling our Call Center at 877-410-8817, calling your worker, or requesting one online at BenefitsCal.com or through the EBT Edge application.
If you lose food due to a fire, flood, or a power outage lasting more than 4 hours, report it within 10 days to request replacement benefits.

Call 877-410-8817 for help applying or if you have questions.