Applicant Rights & Responsibilities
The General Assistance Program is to provide immediate help to people who do not have enough money for basic needs, such as rent/mortgage, food, heating fuel, medications, non-elective medical care and other items that are essential to maintain themselves or their families. In order to receive GA, people must follow program rules and meet the eligibility conditions.
How to Apply
In order to receive assistance, you must apply in person and fill out an application. If your situation is not life threatening you may be expected to make an appointment. When you apply, you will be asked to give the administrator information necessary to determine your eligibility. You will be asked for your household income, expenses and the number of people in your household. You will also be asked to show the administrator proof of your expenses, including food, rent/mortgage, heating fuel, electricity, water/sewer, medical expenses, and so on. Remember, without complete information about your income and expenses, the administrator can’t determine if you are eligible.
What to Bring with You When You Apply:
- Your most recent bills and/or other proof of expenses including rent/mortgage, heating fuel, electricity, food, medical expenses.
- Cancelled checks, receipts or other documents that show how you have spent your money and income for the past 30 days.
- Proof of all household income including: pay stubs, TANF, SSI and SSDI statements.
- Financial statements from all your bank accounts.
- Name and address of your landlord.
- Your driver’s license or other identification.
- Your Social Security number and the Social Security numbers of all members of your household.
- A doctor’s statement if you are ill, disabled, or not able to work.
- Insurance policies.
- Title and registration for any car, truck or recreational vehicle you own.
Remember that it is your responsibility to show that you are eligible. If you do not bring in all the information that has been asked for, the administrator may have to deny your request for assistance until you provide the necessary information.
Fraud
It is important that you tell the truth when you apply for GA. If the administrator finds out that you have not told the truth in order to obtain assistance you are not entitled to, you will be disqualified from receiving GA for 120 days. In addition, the administrator may refer your case over to the police department or District Attorney’s Office for committing General Assistance fraud, which is a Class E Crime.
Confidentiality
The information concerning your request for assistance, including the application, budget sheet, decision and other information regarding your case is strictly confidential. You, your attorney, the administrator and certain personnel may review your records, but the general public may not review your records unless you have given your express permission.