Refugee Cash Assistance

Financial Assistance for newly-arrived refugees without dependent children

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What is the Refugee Cash Assistance Program?

The Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) program provides up to twelve (12) months of cash assistance for refugees who are either single adults or couples without dependent children. Eligible individuals may receive RCA, Medi-Cal and CalFresh during the first 12 months in the United States. RCA recipients are also enrolled in an employment and training program to help them find employment, and are provided with additional refugee supportive services.

Participants are required to participate in employment services as a condition of RCA eligibility.

Who is Considered a Refugee?

The following U.S. Citizenship and Immigration (USCIS) classifications are all considered refugees for the purpose of RCA:

  • Refugees
  • Asylees
  • Cuban and Haitian Entrants
  • Amerasians from Vietnam
  • Certified Human Trafficking Victims
  • Victims of Human Trafficking, Domestic Violence, and Other Serious Crimes
  • Afghan and Iraqi Special Immigrant Visa holders