GR Eligibility

If you are an able-bodied adult you can receive aid for no more than nine months in any 12-month period. Participation in the General Relief (GR) employment and training program,Skills and Training to Achieve Readiness for Tomorrow (START), is mandatory for able-bodied adults.  If you have a verified physical or mental disability you may receive GR with no time limit and are not required to participate in START.  Upon application, if you have a need for substance use disorder treatment, then you must participate in an approved recovery treatment program as a condition of aid.  Most GR participants are eligible for CalFresh and Medi-Cal.

• Employable: Customers with minor restrictions or no medical conditions that would prevent employment. GR customers who are employable may receive GR for nine months in a 12-month period, provided they continue to comply with START requirements.
• Temporary Unemployable*: Customers who have one or more medical conditions affecting their ability to work and their condition will last less than 12 months.
• Permanent Unemployable*: Customers who have one or more medical conditions affecting their ability to work, may qualify for Supplemental Security Income (SSI), and their condition will last more than 12 months or is terminal.  
• Unemployable Volunteer*: Individuals who are unemployable (temporary or permanent), but volunteer to participate in START.
• Administratively Unemployable*: Means there are reasons other than physical or mental incapacity which prevents the individual from finding, accepting or continuing existing employment.
• Needs Special Assistance* (NSA): Individuals who need special assistance due to a mental disability.

*GR benefits are not time limited for individuals who are classified as unemployable or Need Special Assistance.