The agency provides advocacy for residents of the Southeast portion of Los Angeles County. Services include welfare rights assistance. Seniors, age 60 and older, are served, regardless of income; all other clients must meet income requirements which are closely aligned to federal poverty guidelines. Services are restricted to residents of Artesia, Bell, Bell Gardens, Bellflower, Carson, Cerritos, Compton, Cudahy, Downey, Hollydale, Huntington Park, Lynwood, Maywood, Norwalk, Paramount, South Gate, Walnut Park and Willowbrook.

This agency supports the Fully Developed Claims (FDC) Program for veterans and their family and dependents who are seeking to file for benefits. APPLICATION PROCEDURE Call to apply; an appointment is required. Proof of age, income and residence may be required.

The Fully Developed Claim (FDC) program is an optional initiative that allows veterans, service members and their survivors access to a faster decision for their compensation, pension, or survivor benefit claim. The FDC process attempts to resolve claims in 90 days or less. The process involves submitting all evidence at the time the claim is filed and certifying that the claimant has no further evidence. The recommended way to file a claim is electronically, to do so the claimant must go to ebenefits.va.gov. It is also recommended that they appoint an accredited Veterans Service Officer to assist them in gathering the evidence to support their claim. To file by paper, the claimant must fill out a VA Form 21-526EZ and visit the local regional office. At the regional office, the claimant can appoint an accredited Veterans Service Officer. Claimants can call 1-800-827-1000 for further assistance. FEES/PAYMENT SOURCE There are no fees for service.