San Francisco, CA asked in Public Benefits and Social Security for California

Q: Can I receive cash assistance if my son doesn’t have a ssn, and I was told I can’t get him one until he is two?

I currently receive EBT and medi-cal for myself and my son. I was told I am not eligible for cash assistance because my son doesn’t have a Ssn. My son was an unassisted home birth, and since his birth wasn’t registered right away, vital records informed me I would need to wait until he is two years of age then I petition the court for a delayed registration of birth. It was my understanding that there is a paragraph in the rules allowing for “good cause” reasons for not providing a social, and being actually unable to is one of those reasons. I was told though that the rules are different for cash assistance vs EBT and medical. So I’m just trying to find out if I’m really ineligible. I am trying to get out of a domestic violence situation and desperately need the cash aid.

1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
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Answered

A: The eligibility requirements for cash assistance vary by state and program, so it's best to check with your local government agency that administers the program. In some cases, a child's lack of social security number may impact eligibility for cash assistance, but there may be exceptions or workarounds available. You may want to consult with an attorney or legal aid organization that specializes in public benefits to help you navigate this issue.

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