Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA)

Who is it for?

The Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) is a cash assistance program for refugees who are not otherwise eligible for any other cash aid.  RCA also includes employment and other social services to assist a refugee in becoming self-sufficient.

Population that could be eligible for the RCA encompasses all of the following groups: Refugees, Asylees, Cuban and Haitian entrants, Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders, Afghan and Ukrainian Parolees, Amerasians, and Certified Victims of human trafficking.

RCA is available for up to four months from date of admission to the U.S. in qualifying status, date of final grant of asylum or date of certification by the Office of Trafficking Persons.

The Cuban and Haitian Entrant Cash Assistance (ECA) is also a four-month, federally funded needs-based cash assistance program for qualified Cuban and Haitian who have a current or expired parole, who are in pending removal proceedings, or who have a pending application for asylum are Cuban/Haitian Entrants and thus are eligible for ORR benefits and services, same as a refugee. The program mirrors the Refugee Cash Assistance (RCA) program.

Victims of human trafficking may be eligible for additional services before they have a certification by the Office of Trafficking in Persons (OTIP) as Victim of Trafficking. Visit the TCVAP webpage to find out more.

How to Apply:

Apply online at BenefitsCal. To apply in person or to find out more about RCA benefits in your county, please contact your county social services agency.

Already Getting RCA?

If you have questions or problems with your RCA benefits, contact your local County Refugee Coordinator (CRC) or your county social services agency.