General Relief (Cash Assistance)

Help meeting your basic needs

• General Relief provides temporary cash assistance, in the form of a loan, for individuals who have little or no money. The maximum loan for an individual is $387 a month, for married couples $636.
• If eligible, assistance can be approved for up to 6 months in a 12-month period, and possibly longer for individuals with disabilities.
• General Relief recipients that can work are eligible for employment assistance, supportive services, and connection with employers.

Who may be eligible

• Residents of Marin County intending to stay
• U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or residing under PRUCOL
• Adults aged 18 or older with no dependents (or less than 50% custody)
• Married couples

An interview and review of information is required to determine whether you meet the program's income and resource limits. The program reviews cash and bank balances, personal property, and any money received.

• Cash and bank balances of $400 or less for an individual / $800 or less for a couple
• Personal property of $600 or less for an individual / $1200 or less for a couple

Program overview and benefits

General Relief provides temporary cash assistance as a loan to help individuals meet basic needs when they have little or no money. The program may approve assistance for up to six months within a 12-month period, with the possibility of longer assistance for individuals with disabilities. Recipients who are able to work may receive employment assistance, supportive services, and help connecting with employers.

Eligibility and resource review

Eligibility is limited to residents of Marin County who intend to remain in the County and who meet citizenship or immigration criteria (U.S. citizens, Lawful Permanent Residents, or persons residing under PRUCOL). Applicants are generally adults age 18 or older with no dependents (or with less than 50% custody). Married couples may apply together.

The County interviews applicants and reviews financial resources to determine eligibility. Typical resource limits reviewed include:

• Cash and bank balances of $400 or less for an individual / $800 or less for a couple
• Personal property of $600 or less for an individual / $1200 or less for a couple
• Any other money received is reviewed as part of the eligibility determination

Documentation and verification

Prior to approval, applicants should expect to provide documentation to verify identity, immigration or Social Security status, and financial resources. Commonly requested documents include:

• Proof of identity — driver's license, state-issued identification card, or passport
• Social Security card or verification of an application to receive one
• Bank statements

Work Requirements

The General Relief (GR) program has work requirements for most participants. These requirements depend on your ability to work.

Employable Individuals
If you are able to work, you are considered “employable.”

• You can receive GR for up to 6 months within a 12-month period
• You must take part in the County’s employment program

Unemployable Individuals
If you are unable to work due to a medical condition, you may qualify for GR without a time limit.

Individuals Needing Special Assistance
If you have a mental disability and need special assistance, you may also qualify for GR without a time limit.

Employment Program Participation
Most GR participants are required to take part in Marin County's Employment & Training program. This program will help you build skills and find a job.

Be sure to follow all program requirements. The county will review your situation and let you know what is required based on your ability to work.