Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI)
CAPI provides cash assistance to certain aged, blind, and disabled legal non-citizens ineligible for Supplemental Social Security Income/State Supplemental Payment (SSI/SSP) due to their immigration status
- Agency
- California Department of Social Services
- Type
- State Resource
- Phone
- 866-613-3777, 310-258-7400, 626-569-1399
- Application Period
- Income Limit
CAPI provides cash assistance to certain aged, blind, and disabled legal non-citizens ineligible for Supplemental Social Security Income/State Supplemental Payment (SSI/SSP) due to their immigration status.
CAPI provides cash assistance to certain aged, blind, and disabled legal non-citizens ineligible for Supplemental Social Security Income/State Supplemental Payment (SSI/SSP) due to their immigration status.
Eligibility Requirements
Certain aged, blind, and disabled legal non-citizens ineligible for SSI/SSP due to immigration status.
Images & PDFs
Impact Reports
Addressing the Economic Challenges Faced by Immigrant Families
1/20/2023 | Coverage: national
This national study outlines the economic pressures faced by immigrant families and emphasizes the necessity of cash assistance programs in light of rising living costs.
Source: Economic Policy Institute
Coverage Area: national
Stigma and Support: The Role of Cash Assistance Programs
9/10/2021 | Coverage: national
This research highlights the stigma often associated with cash assistance and provides evidence of how programs like CAPI help normalize the use of aid within immigrant communities.
Source: Stigma Support Initiative
Coverage Area: national
The Impact of Cash Assistance Programs on Immigrant Communities
6/15/2022 | Coverage: state
This report discusses how the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) alleviates financial hardship for participants, contributing to stronger community ties and reducing stigma around receiving aid.
Source: California Immigrant Policy Center
Coverage Area: state
Program Timeline
CAPI Eligibility Expansion to Undocumented Seniors
9/1/2021California expanded CAPI to include undocumented seniors aged 65 and over, further increasing support for marginalized communities.
Restoration of CAPI Funding
6/30/2017After a period of cuts, funding for CAPI was restored, reflecting the state's commitment to support low-income immigrants.
CAPI Budget Increase
1/1/2005A budget increase was approved for CAPI to meet the growing demand for services among eligible immigrants.
CAPI Eligibility Expansion
7/1/2000The eligibility criteria for CAPI were expanded to include additional groups of immigrants, making assistance more accessible.
Launch of CAPI
1/1/1998California's Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) was established to provide financial aid to aged, blind, and disabled immigrants who do not qualify for federal Supplemental Security Income.
FAQ
The amount of financial assistance provided through CAPI varies based on several factors, including the individual's living situation and household size. The payment amounts are typically set at a standard rate established by the state, which may be adjusted annually.
Reference: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/capi
The Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants (CAPI) is a California state-funded program that provides financial assistance to eligible aged, blind, or disabled non-citizens who do not qualify for federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) due to their immigration status. The program aims to help low-income immigrants meet their basic needs, such as housing and food.
Reference: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/capi
To be eligible for CAPI, individuals must be aged 65 or older, or blind or disabled. Additionally, applicants must be legal non-citizens who are not eligible for SSI due to their immigration status. Income and resource limits also apply, and applicants must reside in California.
To determine if you are eligible for CAPI, consider the following checklist:
- You are aged 65 or older, or you are blind or disabled.
- You are a legal non-citizen.
- You are not eligible for SSI.
- You meet income and resource limits.
- You reside in California.
If you meet all the above criteria, you may qualify for CAPI benefits.
To apply for CAPI, follow these action items:
- Gather required documentation, including proof of age, immigration status, and income.
- Complete the CAPI application form available at your local county office.
- Submit your application along with supporting documents.
- Attend any scheduled interviews or follow-up appointments with your county worker.
Following these steps will help ensure a smooth application process.
Reference: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/capi
Eligibility requirements and benefits are subject to change. Always check with local authorities for the most current information.
