Latest Updates
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Implementation of CalFresh time limit
HR1 caused substantial changes to the CalFresh time limit and work requirements. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) will implement these changes effective June 1, 2026. Counties cannot implement these changes prior to automation in the CalSAWS…
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Electronic signatures on Social Security forms
The Social Security Administration (SSA) will now accept electronic signatures from commercial software products on certain forms. The signature must affix the signer’s name in the signature area of the form, and affix the date and time the…
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Child Support Guideline changes
The California Department of Child Support Services (DCSS) has informed local child support agencies (LCSAs) about changes to the child support guidelines. Beginning January 1, 2026, LCSA may no longer plead presumed income in child support complaints. This…
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CalWORKs Homeless Assistance Questions and Answers
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has issued questions and answers about CalWORKs Homeless Assistance (HA). HA serves eligible CalWORKs recipients or applicants who are apparently eligible for CalWORKs, who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. …
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Overview of Transforming CalWORKs changes
The California Department of Social Services has informed counties about changes to the CalWORKs program from the Transforming CalWORKs initiative encompassed in SB 119 and SB 146. Effective immediately, the county must gather the recipients determination of their…
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CalFresh mid-period actions questions and answers
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has issued questions and answers about mid-period reporting for CalFresh. If the county cannot determine the impact of a mid-period report on the household’s benefits, the county must contact the household. …
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CAPI Cost of Living Increase
Effective January 1, 2026, Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants benefits will increase by 2.8 percent. This increase is because of the Social Security and SSI 2.8 percent cost of living adjustment (COLA) and the amount of CAPI benefits…
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AFDC Foster Care Eligibility and Redetermination Rules
The California Department of Social Services issued a reminder regarding federal and state requirements for eligibility and redetermination for foster youth and non-minor dependents. Annual redeterminations are not required after the initial eligibility decision is made for a…
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Impact of Social Security COLA on CalWORKs and CalFresh
Effective January 1, 2026, Social Security and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits will increase by a 2.8 percent cost of living adjustment (COLA). For new CalWORKs and CalFresh applications, the actual amount of Social Security, including the COLA, must…
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Relaunch of CalFresh Food and Vegetable Pilot
On November 17, 2025, the California Department of Social Services relaunched the Food and Vegetable Pilot. The pilot project allows CalFresh recipients to earn a dollar-for-dollar match, up to $60 per month, when buying fresh fruits and vegetables…