The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has informed counties about changes to the CalWORKs pregnancy verification, signature and photo identification requirements.
Effective July 1, 2021, a pregnant person only applicant who cannot provide medical verification of pregnancy can submit a sworn statement to verify pregnancy for CalWORKs and the pregnancy special needs payment. Pregnant Person Only applicants who provide a sworn statement must provide medical verification of pregnancy within 30 working days. Counties must extend this time for good cause.
Counties must give written notice of required documentation within 10 days of the date of application. Counties must assist in obtaining documentation when the applicant has made every attempt necessary to obtain it.
Effective July 1, 2021, an applicant can sign a CalWORKs application by oral attestation if the applicant cannot provide a physical signature or the county is unable to accept an electronic or telephonic signature. Except for Homeless Assistance benefits, the applicant must submit a physical signature within 30 working days following an oral attestation for benefits to continue.
Following verbal attestation, the county shall mail the Statement of Facts and all other application forms to the client to be signed and returned via U.S. mail within 30 days. If the client has not submitted a physical signature within 30 days, the client must terminate the case.
Effective July 1, 2021, CalWORKs applicants can present photo identification virtually, including by videoconference. (ACL 21-134, November 9, 2021.)