General Assistance (GA)

The Minnesota Department of Human Services oversees economic assistance programs that provide a safety net for the elderly and people with disabilities. The General Assistance (GA) Program serves as Minnesota’s primary safety net for single adults and childless married couples who are unable to work. The GA program provides monthly cash grants for people whose income and resources are less than program limits. GA participants are also eligible for help with medical costs through the Medical Assistance (MA) programs and Food Support.

Eligibility requirements

Program participants must fit at least one of the 15 categories of eligibility related to illness or injury as specified in state statutes. Most applicants and recipients are required to apply for benefits from federally funded programs for which they may qualify, such as Retirement, Survivors, and Disability Insurance or Supplemental Security Income. In addition, individuals or couples must have incomes and resources less than program limits.

Applying for GA

To apply for the GA program, contact your local county human service agency. In St Louis County contact St Louis County Public Health & Human Services. You may also download a Combined Application Form (CAF). Mail or bring the completed CAF to your local county human services agency. For security reasons, do not apply for assistance online.

Contact: Call for information or visit the nearest office for an application to determine if you are eligible. Duluth: 218-726-2101; Virginia: 218-749-7137; Hibbing: 218-262-6000; Ely: 218-365-8220 or call toll free 800-450-9777 or email financialassistance@stlouiscountymn.gov. St Louis County is an equal opportunity provider.