CalWORKs Welfare-to-Work Handbook

Background

The WtW Handbook is a participant guide intended to provide a high-level overview of the WtW program. County Health and Human Service Agencies (HHSAs) may modify this resource without obtaining CDSS approval. This includes, but is not limited to, using it in its entirety, or using specific sections to accompany county resources previously developed for participants entering the WtW Program.  

The information provided in this handbook is intended to offer general guidelines and information. It is not meant to be comprehensive or to address all the possible applications of, or exceptions to, the policies and procedures described. CDSS will maintain and update the WtW Handbook as policy changes make revisions necessary.  

This revised CalWORKs WtW handbook has been reimagined through a human-centered lens and aligned to CalWORKs 2.0 Principles. The goal was to create a handbook that makes it easier for families to understand the CalWORKs WtW program and support county staff as they partner with participants in achieving meaningful goals.

Regulations

Regulations at MPP section 42-711.112 state that at the time an individual applies for aid or at the time a recipient’s eligibility for aid is determined, the county Health and Human Service Agency shall provide the individual, in writing and orally as necessary, with information including:  

• A general description of the education, employment, and training opportunities and the supportive services available, including transitional benefits.  
• A description of the exemptions from required participation and the consequences of a refusal to participate in program components, if not exempt.  

CalWORKs WtW Handbook for Participants

Translations:

• WtW Handbook – Spanish