Get help
Get help with essential California services. You can find answers to your questions about state services with our FAQs and contact resources.
California assistance programs
Food
Add to your food budget and get help putting healthy food on the table with the CalFresh Program.
Family nutrition
The WIC program helps parents and young children with nutrition and breastfeeding support.
Cash aid
Get cash each month to help pay for housing, food and other expenses with CalWORKS.
Shelter
Get free or low-cost housing through the Housing and Homelessness Division.
Health
Sign up for Medi-Cal, offering free or low-cost health care for you and your family.
Mental health care
Mental health is an essential part of your healthcare. Find resources and get more information.
Find assistance
Get help paying utility bills and access community services.
Find services in your area
Search by city or use the county map to find local services in your area.
Frequently asked questions
These are some commonly asked questions and answers, by service.
How do I apply for CalFresh/Food Stamps?
In California, each county may have a different way to apply for CalFresh benefits. Apply in your county, or online at the Benefitscal.com Website.
More information: Food stamps
Where do I go if I have questions about a traffic citation?
You must contact the court specified on the Notice to Appear citation or the law enforcement agency specified on the Notice to Correct Violation form to obtain information about your ticket, including information relating to fines and bail. Please refer to the warnings and follow the instructions provided on your ticket. Direct your inquiries to the specific court indicated on the front of your ticket.
More information: Traffic tickets
You must obtain a seller’s permit if you:
- Are engaged in business in California
- Intend to sell or lease tangible personal property that would ordinarily be subject to sales tax if sold at retail (this includes wholesalers, manufactures and retailers.)
- Will make sales for a temporary period, normally lasting no longer than 90 days at one or more locations (for example, fireworks booth, Christmas tree lots, garage sale)
More information: Apply for Business License
How much does it cost to buy insurance through Covered California?
The best way to get a quick estimate of the price you would pay is to use the Shop and Compare Tool. The price is based on your estimated income for the coverage year, your ZIP code, your household size and your age. If you are a low- or moderate-income Californian, you may get help buying insurance from Covered California through monthly subsidies that lower your premium costs so that you pay less for top-quality, brand-name insurance. Learn more about who qualifies for a subsidy.
More information: Apply for Medical Insurance
How much does Medi-Cal cost?
For many individuals who enroll in Medi-Cal, there is no premium, no co-payment, and no out of pocket cost. Some households will see affordable costs, such as a low monthly premium. For some Medi-Cal children, the monthly premiums are $13 per child up to a family maximum of $39 per month. In general, individuals in Medi-Cal will get the same health benefits available through Covered California at a lower cost.
More information: Apply for Medi-Cal
How can I make a reservation at a State Park?
Visit ReserveCalifornia, our new system is easy to use - similar to booking hotels, airline tickets and other comparable services.
More information: Find a State Park
General assistance
Available 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding state holidays
Get help with state services and programs:
- Email [email protected]
- Call 800-807-6755