The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has extended certain COVID-19 emergency procedures for the Cash Assistance Program for Immigrants.
The CAPI face-to-face interview requirement will continue to be waived through the end of the State of Emergency in California. Counties must accept CAPI applications by telephone, mail, fax and email.
The waiver of the requirement for CAPI applicants to submit proof of SSI application denial because of immigration status expires on December 31, 2020. After December 31, 2020, and through the end of the State of Emergency in California, the SSI ineligibility requirement may be met by verification that an SSI application has been filed and is pending final determination. Counties must get a copy of the application summary letter issued by SSI after the applicant completes a SSI application. Verbal attestations of having applied for SSI will not longer be acceptable after December 31, 2020.
Counties can check the MEDS system for proof that the CAPI applicant applied for SSI and was denied because of immigration status. (ACL 20-143, December 18, 2020.)