Assist OC Frequently Asked Questions

Please note: If you are calling on behalf of another person (the applicant), the documentation presented must be of the applicant’s
How do I Apply?

Ensure you review the eligibility requirements first

You will need a working mobile phone number and email address.

Call 2-1-1 to verify that you qualify, and schedule an appointment for Assist OC.

Households will need to submit basic documentation to verify eligibility, including identification, income verification, and documentation of the COVID-19 related loss of income.

Gather the following documents:
  • Photo ID
  • Utility Bill to verify your address
  • Employment/Income Status verification (before and after COVID-19) via previous pay stub, letter from employer, etc.
What if I don’t live in Orange County, CA?

Unfortunately, at this time we are not able to assist anyone living outside of Orange County, California. We encourage you to contact your local 211 to find out about other assistance programs that may be available to you.

Which cities are located in Orange County?

Aliso Viejo, Anaheim, Brea, Buena Park, Costa Mesa, Cypress, Dana Point, Fountain Valley, Fullerton, Garden Grove, Huntington Beach, Irvine, La Habra, La Palma, Laguna Beach, Laguna Hills, Laguna Niguel, Laguna Woods, Lake Forrest, Los Alamitos, Mission Viejo, Newport Beach, Orange, Placentia, Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Stanton, Tustin, Villa Park, Westminster, Yorba Linda, and County of Orange unincorporated areas.

I have received the $500 emergency debit card. Thank you! Can I apply to receive a second debit card?

No. The AssistOC / COVID-19 Homeless Prevention Program is a one-time-only per household financial aid. We encourage you to contact your local 211 to find out about other assistance programs that may be available to you.

What documents can be used to verify identification?
  • Passport, US or foreign county
  • Driver’s License
  • State ID card
  • Consular ID
  • AB60 License
  • Military ID
What if my photo Identification (ID) doesn’t have an address or it doesn’t match my current address but I live in Orange County, CA?

If your photo ID is outside of the state of California or the United States, or the address on your ID doesn’t match the current address in Orange County, CA. Please include a copy of a utility bill or pay stub that is addressed to your name and address in Orange County.

What other documents can be used to provide proof of address?
  • Pay Stub (with your name and current address)
  • Utility Bill (with your name and current address)
  • ID (with your name and current address)
  • Bank Statement (with your name and current address)
What household income qualifies as being below 80% of the average median income (AMI)?

More information on each County’s Median Income can be found here.

Is household income eligibility (80% AMI) determined based on current income or income prior to March, 2020?

It will be based on income prior to March 2020.

What if my AMI exceeds 80% for my household and me?

Unfortunately, at this time we are not able to provide any assistance because the COVID-19 Homeless Prevention Program is only intended for households whose income has been negatively affected due to the pandemic.

What documents can be used as proof of income?
  • 2019 tax return
  • At least 2 pay stubs, in consecutive order
    • If paid monthly, include 2 months’ worth of pay stubs
    • If paid twice monthly, include 2 pay periods
  • Bank statements: February 2020, March 2020
What if I am not able to provide the required documents because I don’t have pay stubs or I am self-employed? For example, my former employer is closed and cannot provide a notice or pay stubs, or is self-employed.

Submit a letter or statement, or screenshot if sent via text message from your previous client or customer confirming your professional relationship has been suspended due to COVID-19.

What if my proof of income prior to March 1, 2020 reflects part-time work or fluctuating hours?

If you were part-time/seasonal prior to March 1, 2020 and experienced a loss of employment or more reduction in work hours, you can provide current proof of income to reflect reduced hours or loss of employment. Include the last 2-3 pay stubs from before March 1, 2020, or 2019’s Tax Return (1040), or 2019’s 1099 for contract, seasonal or self-employed.

How do you calculate income of “gig” workers AKA Uber, Lyft, etc.?

Average pay stubs from January and February 2020.

What are the documents reflecting loss of income related to COVID-19?

Depending on the circumstance, adults in the household can provide a Notice of Termination from employer, letter from employer capturing employment is on hold until further notice, or a letter from a medical professional stating you have been exposed or tested positive for COVID-19.

What other information do I need to provide?
  • A mobile phone number
  • An email address
  • Date of Birth

Version 04.27.2020