Frequently Asked Questions About General Relief

• What is General Relief?

• Do I have to pay back money I receive?

• Who May be Eligible?

• What If I Also Need Medical Services?

• What if I am Able to Work but I am Unemployed?

• What if I am Sick or Disabled and Cannot Work?

• Will I Be Fingerprinted?

What is General Relief?

General Relief (GR) is a cash assistance program funded by the County of Orange for eligible indigent adults with no minor children, and to certain legal immigrants who do not qualify for other cash assistance programs.

Do I Have to Pay Back Money I Receive?

Yes, GR benefits are considered to be a loan and must be repaid to the County. 

Who May be Eligible?

Generally speaking, persons who live in Orange County and are U.S. Citizens or legal immigrants and who meet certain income and property requirements can be eligible.  However, to determine exactly what criteria must be met, you should speak with an Eligibility Technician.

What If I Also Need Medical Services?

If you are eligible for General Relief Benefits you will be automatically certified eligible for the County Medical Services Initiative (MSI) Program.

What if I am Able to Work but I am Unemployed?

Persons who are able to work must:

• Apply for other income that may be available such as UIB

• Register and cooperate with the GR Work Program (GRWP)

What If I am Sick or Disabled and Cannot Work?

Persons who are not able to work must:

• Provide medical verification and apply for other available income such as Social Security Disability, Social Security Income (SSI) or State Disability (SDI or DIB).

• Cooperate with the county Medical Review Team.

Will I be Fingerprinted?

Unless otherwise exempt, all GR Applicants and Recipients must be fingerprinted as a condition of eligibility.