The California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids (CalWORKs) program provides essential financial assistance to low-income families across California.
As February 2025 approaches, many families rely on this support to help cover food, housing, and childcare costs.
This guide breaks down payment dates, eligibility requirements, and the application process, so you can ensure you receive your benefits on time.
Overview of CalWORKs Payments in February 2025
The CalWORKs program is California’s version of the federal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program.
It provides monthly cash assistance and additional services to help families move toward economic self-sufficiency.
Key Details
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | CalWORKs (California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids) |
| Payment Dates | Issued between February 1 – February 10, based on case number |
| Eligibility | Low-income families with children under 18 (or 19 if in school) |
| How to Apply | Online via BenefitsCal, by phone, or at a county office |
| Payment Method | EBT card or direct deposit (in some cases) |
| Official Source | California Department of Social Services (CDSS) |
Understanding how and when payments are distributed will help ensure that families don’t experience delays in receiving their benefits.
What is CalWORKs?
CalWORKs provides temporary financial assistance to eligible low-income families with children. The program also offers job training, housing assistance, childcare services, and career counseling to help recipients gain financial independence.
This monthly benefit is issued through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card, or through direct deposit (where available).
Who Qualifies for CalWORKs Payments in February 2025?
To receive CalWORKs benefits, families must meet specific eligibility criteria, including:
1. Family Size and Composition
- You must have at least one child under 18 years old (or under 19 if they are still in high school).
- Pregnant women may qualify, depending on their household income and assets.
2. Income Limits
Your household income must be below the set CalWORKs income threshold, which varies by county and family size.
Example of Income Limits (Los Angeles County 2025):
- Family of 3 (2 adults, 1 child) → Gross monthly income must be below $1,750.
- Exact income limits depend on county-specific calculations and deductions for expenses like childcare and medical costs.
3. Asset Limits
- Most families must have less than $2,250 in total assets (excluding a primary residence).
- Some savings and vehicles may be exempt depending on specific county rules.
4. Work Requirements (Welfare-to-Work Program)
Most adults in the household must participate in Welfare-to-Work (WTW) activities, which may include:
- Job training and employment programs
- Educational support (such as GED or vocational training)
- Community service
However, certain individuals may qualify for exemptions, including:
- Disabled adults
- Caregivers of young children (under age 6)
- Full-time students
How to Apply for CalWORKs in 2025
If you believe you qualify for CalWORKs benefits, here’s how you can apply:
1. Online Application
- Visit BenefitsCal (California’s official benefits portal).
- Create an account or log in to submit an application.
2. In-Person Application
- Visit your local county social services office to apply.
- Bring proof of income, identity, and residency for faster processing.
3. Phone Application
- Contact your local county office to apply over the phone.
- A caseworker will guide you through the process and explain required documents.
After applying, a caseworker will review your application, and you may need to provide additional documents (such as pay stubs or rental agreements). If approved, you’ll start receiving payments based on your assigned date.
CalWORKs Payment Dates for February 2025
Payments are issued based on your case number’s last digit, typically between February 1 – February 10.
| Case Number Ends In | Payment Date (February 2025) |
|---|---|
| 1 | February 1, 2025 |
| 2 | February 2, 2025 |
| 3 | February 3, 2025 |
| 4 | February 4, 2025 |
| 5 | February 5, 2025 |
| 6 | February 6, 2025 |
| 7 | February 7, 2025 |
| 8 | February 8, 2025 |
| 9 | February 9, 2025 |
| 0 | February 10, 2025 |
If a payment date falls on a weekend or holiday, payments are issued on the closest business day.
How Are CalWORKs Payments Issued?
CalWORKs benefits are distributed via:
1. Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) Card
- Works like a debit card for groceries and essential items.
- Can be used at ATMs to withdraw cash (check for potential fees).
- Accepted at major retailers and some online stores.
2. Direct Deposit (in select counties)
- Available for approved recipients who prefer payments sent directly to their bank account.
Additional Benefits Available Through CalWORKs
Beyond monthly financial assistance, CalWORKs provides extra benefits to help families move toward financial stability.
1. Welfare-to-Work (WTW) Program
- Offers job training, career counseling, and education programs.
- Provides childcare assistance while parents work or attend school.
2. Childcare Services
- Covers daycare costs for working parents.
- Available for children up to age 12 (or 19 if still in school).
3. Housing Assistance
- Helps families pay rent or find affordable housing.
- Emergency housing support is available for homeless families.
4. Health Care Support
- CalWORKs recipients qualify for Medi-Cal, providing free or low-cost healthcare.
The CalWORKs program is an essential resource for low-income families in California, offering financial aid, childcare support, job training, and housing assistance.
As February 2025 approaches, make sure you:
Check your eligibility
Apply if you qualify
Know your payment date
Use BenefitsCal to manage your benefits
If you or someone you know needs financial help, don’t wait—apply today and take full advantage of CalWORKs support.
