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Application Processing
[69-205.21]
Timely Processing
The eligibility determination for Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) and Entrant Cash Assistance (ECA) applicants must be determined as timely as possible, but NO later than thirty (30) calendar days from the date of application.
When an Immediate Need (IN) is identified, the application is to be processed expeditiously.
Aid should not be withheld awaiting proof of registration for employment services. EWs must make it clear that applicants need to complete the registration process when the Central Intake Unit (CIU) contacts them and participate in employment services within the first 30 days of receipt of aid. In addition, EWs should inform the applicant that if they fail to comply with this requirement, their assistance will be discontinued unless they have good cause for not participating.
Note: When processing an application for a trafficking victim and/or their non-immigrant family members, EWs must call the toll-free trafficking verification line at 1 (866) 401-5510 to confirm the validity of a certification letter and to notify ORR of the benefits for which these individuals are applying.
Social Security Number (SSN)
[69-205.22]
RCA/ECA applicants must apply for a SSN, but they are not required to provide a SSN to Social Services Agency (SSA). The EW cannot deny an RCA/ECA applicant for failure to disclose their SSN. However, the EW may request the applicant to voluntarily provide the SSN.
The following is the process for securing the SSN from the applicant:
- Inform the applicant that the disclosure of the SSN is voluntary, and
- Advise the applicant how the SSN will be used (i.e., explain the IEVS process).
Exception: The above process does not apply if the applicant is also applying for CalFresh.
Note: Persons receiving an RCA/ECA payment also receive a full scope Medi-Cal card.
Non-Citizen Victims of Human Trafficking, Domestic Violence, or Other Serious Crimes
Individuals claiming the status of a victim of human trafficking, other serious crimes, or non-citizen victims of domestic violence (battered non-citizens) do not have to provide or apply for a SSN as a condition of eligibility for state-funded CalWORKs benefits.
Match Grant
The Resettlement Agency Service Providers provide financial aid and services to newly arrived refugees when at least one member of a refugee family is employable. This program is called the "Match Grant" program. Intake EWs must ask the refugee applicant if they are in the "Match Grant" program.
If the applicant is not sure if they are enrolled in the "Match Grant" program, the resettlement agency assisting the applicant should be contacted to avoid any RCA overpayments due to dual enrollment. "Match Grant" program participants are not eligible to receive RCA.
The applicant must be informed that if they are in the "Match Grant" program and they are approved for cash assistance at SSA, they will lose their eligibility to ALL "Match Grant" services from the Resettlement Agency Service Provider. Refer to Common Place Handbook Match Grant for more information.
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