Typically, the state provides the administrative control and funding for these programs. The remaining eight statewide programs have eligibility rules and benefit schedules that vary by county or locality. Eighteen states do not mandate a GA program at either the state or local level. In nine of these states, some towns or counties have chosen to operate their own GA program. These localities tend to be located in the larger, more urban areas of the state.
Programs vary widely from one county to the next.
The remaining nine states have no GA program, and most of these states are located in the South. Each General Assistance program has a set of eligibility criteria that serve to limit benefits to that portion of the population the state defines as most in need. Twelve states provide assistance to all financially needy persons who do not qualify for federally funded cash assistance programs yet meet the state's financial and other eligibility requirements. Among those programs, all provide assistance to at least one subcategory of persons who are disabled, elderly, or otherwise unemployable. Nineteen provide assistance to low-income children or families with children, including women pregnant with their first child.