What is CAPI?
- CAPI is a state-funded program in California.
- it gives monthly cash benefits to non-citizens who are age 65 or older, blind, or disabled, and who cannot get Supplemental Security Income /State Supplementary Payments solely because of their immigration status.
- It’s meants to provide similar benefit amounts to those that SSI/SSP would provide, for those who qualify.
Are You Eligible?
to be eligible for CAPI, a person must meet all the following:
- be a non-citizen with the appropriate immigration status
- be 65 years or older, legally blind, or disabled
- be ineligible for SSI/SSP only because of immigration status. That is, they must meet all other SSI/SSP requirements excluding immigration status. May require a denial letter from them.
- Be a resident of California
- Meet certain income limits (very low income) and resource/asset limits. For example, resources must be under about $2,000 for an individual, $3,000 for a couple.
- Complete the application process, provides needed documentation (immigration documents, proof of SSI denial, income, etc.)
What Does CAPI Provide?
- Monthly cash payments comparable to SSI/SSP. The actual amount depends on marital status, living situation, and other incoe or resources.
- Recipients may also separately qualify for other programs: Medi-Cal, CalFresh, IHSS. But being in CAPI does not automatically grant those. These require a separate application for each.
What Disqualifies Your Eligibility?
- Being a U.S. Citizen
- being in a public institution for 30+ consecutive days.
- being outside of California for 30+ consecutive days.
- Being a fleeing felon or violating parole or probation in certain ways.
Application and Renewal
- CAPI needs to be renewed annually to ensure that eligibility requirements are still met (income, resources, disability status). You must report major changes such as living situation and income.