Ongoing Assistance

If you are medically unable to work, as determined by a medical professional, you may be eligible for temporary ongoing assistance.  

Eligibility requirements include providing a Medical Incapacity Statement from a physician indicating you are 100% disabled.  Additionally, you must have already started the process of applying for Social Security Income (SSI) and/or Social Security Disability Income (SSDI) or you must start that process within 30 days of receiving assistance in order for assistance to continue.

Repayment:  Applicants must sign an agreement for the Social Security Administration to reimburse General Assistance for any assistance provided during the period of application.  This would only be paid in the event the applicant is ultimately approved for SSI 

To apply for assistance, fill out the online application or a paper application and bring it to the General Assistance office.  You can also apply by phone by calling (515) 286-2088 or by sending an e-mail to ga.documents@polkcountyiowa.gov In most cases, an interview will take 15-20 minutes to complete.