Utah General Assistance: Eligibility, Benefits & Application Guide

Utah’s General Assistance (GA) program offers critical financial support for adults facing severe hardship and unable to work due to a physical or mental health condition. This comprehensive guide explains who can qualify, how the process works, benefit types, and answers to common questions about applying for General Assistance in Utah.

What is Utah General Assistance?

General Assistance (GA) is a state-funded program provided by Utah’s Department of Workforce Services (DWS) for adults who do not qualify for federal cash aid programs like TANF and who have a significant and documented physical or mental health barrier that prevents them from working. GA is temporary, offering limited cash support and case management while recipients pursue long-term disability benefits or medical treatment.

  • Not for families with minor children (see TANF instead).
  • Cash assistance is modest and time-limited.
  • Recipients must engage in activities aimed at increasing self-sufficiency, such as applying for Social Security Disability (SSI/SSDI) or following a medical treatment plan.

Who is Eligible for General Assistance in Utah?

Eligibility for General Assistance is strict, and applicants must meet all of the following criteria:

  • Utah resident, usually aged 18-64, with no minor children in the household.
  • Unable to work for at least 60 days due to a medical, mental health, or other disabling condition, verified by a licensed medical or mental health professional.
  • Low income and limited resources (income and asset limits are similar to TANF, but you cannot be eligible for TANF, SSI, or SSDI at the time of application).
  • Must be pursuing federal disability benefits, following treatment, or working with DWS on a plan to improve self-sufficiency.
  • US citizen or eligible non-citizen.

Some situations that do not qualify for GA:

  • Adults who are able to work or whose condition is not documented.
  • People receiving TANF, SSI, SSDI, or Unemployment Insurance.
  • Families with minor children (must apply for TANF instead).
If you’re unsure if you qualify, use our Benefits Finder or contact your local DWS office for help.

How Much is the General Assistance Benefit?

GA provides a modest monthly cash benefit. The exact amount depends on your living situation and eligible expenses, but it is typically less than $300 per month. GA is designed as a temporary bridge, not a long-term income source.

  • Benefit is usually paid via direct deposit or an EBT card.
  • If you are approved for SSI/SSDI later, you may need to pay back GA from your retroactive disability award.

In addition to cash aid, DWS may provide help with:

  • Medical referrals and assisting with disability benefit applications (SSI/SSDI)
  • Supportive services such as case management, referrals, and employment planning (if/when able)

How to Apply for General Assistance in Utah

  1. Gather required documents: See documents required for GA and medical/disability verification.
  2. Apply online at Utah MyCase, or in person at a DWS office.
  3. Complete an interview and submit all required medical/disability forms. DWS may provide forms for your healthcare provider to fill out.
  4. Work with your DWS caseworker to create a plan (usually applying for SSI/SSDI or following a treatment plan).
  5. Recertify as required; GA is reviewed frequently due to its temporary nature.

Processing can take several weeks, especially if medical records are needed. Stay in contact with your caseworker and respond to requests for information promptly.

Frequently Asked Questions: Utah General Assistance

No. General Assistance is a state-funded, temporary program for adults unable to work who do not yet receive SSI/SSDI. It is meant to help while you apply for federal disability benefits or recover. If you start receiving SSI/SSDI, your GA will end, and you may owe repayment from any back pay.
A disability for GA must be verified by a qualified medical or mental health provider and must prevent you from working for at least 60 days. Common examples include severe physical illness, injury, or a serious mental health condition. DWS will provide forms for your provider to complete.
Yes, most GA recipients can also get SNAP benefits if they meet the income guidelines. You can apply for both at the same time through MyCase.
GA is time-limited and reviewed frequently. Most recipients get GA for a few months up to a year, depending on their efforts to qualify for SSI/SSDI and their continuing medical eligibility. You must recertify as requested by DWS.
Possibly. If you remain unable to work and DWS determines you are still pursuing all available benefits or appealing SSI/SSDI denial, you may continue GA. You must stay in close contact with your worker and follow all requirements.
No. Adults with minor children are not eligible for GA but should apply for TANF (Family Employment Program) instead.
Contact your local DWS office, call 1-866-435-7414, or visit the official GA page. For a personalized check, try the Benefits Finder tool.

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