New technology for El Dorado County makes it easier to access benefits

El Dorado County residents who may qualify for CalFresh, CalWORKs, Medi-Cal or the County Medical Services Program (CMSP) now have multiple ways to enroll in the programs, check their benefits and more. Through a secure internet portal at www.C4yourself.com, individuals can complete their applications and annual renewals, submit documents, and check the status of their case online at any time; they can also access their case information over the phone via the State’s secure Interactive Voice Response (IVR) System at any time.

Timalynn Jaynes, Program Manager with El Dorado County Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) Income Maintenance Programs says this newer technology is designed to improve access to services and public assistance benefits, as well as improve program efficiency. “People who need to apply for or renew benefits can now do much of it through these systems, rather than having to physically come into our office,” said Jaynes. “With these systems, our case workers can also more quickly receive, review and process the needed information and documents for residents who may be struggling and need assistance.”

Through the C4yourself website, individuals can apply online 24/7, and (once approved) they can submit required forms and verifications (or documentation) electronically, update information, view messages from their worker, and more. C4Yourself also has a mobile application, and participants can sign up to receive text message reminders for scheduled appointments and document due dates. Individuals who sign up for the IVR phone system (1-877-410-8807) can obtain information 24/7 over the phone, including office hours, their case worker’s name and phone number, appointment reminders and other helpful information.

CalFresh, CalWORKs and Medi-Cal are federally funded, locally administered programs that help people on low incomes buy healthy food, find work and assist with health care coverage. These programs are not just for families in need with children. The programs may also serve single people, the elderly, and those with disabilities who have low incomes. CMSP provides health care services for indigent adults who are not eligible for Medi-Cal and whose income is insufficient to pay medical bills while meeting their basic needs.

For more information about these public assistance programs in El Dorado County, visit www.edcgov.us/hhsa or call (530) 642-7300 on the West Slope or at (530) 573-3200 in the Tahoe Basin.