Is my state of residence still California?

[m-jenkins]

I moved to MD from CA in September for personal reasons, but have been technically homeless since I've been here (staying with a friend). Is my state of residence still CA? 

I don't know if it changes things, but I've also been on government assistance (EBT and Medicaid), have worked less than a month in MD, and have not yet applied for an ID card (since I have no actual place of residence).

[ToddL]

If your move to MD was permanent, then you were probably a resident of MD on December 31, 2017.

What makes you a resident of a state (or country)? 

Generally, you're a resident of a state (or country) if you intend to either stay there permanently, or return there after a temporary absence. It's where home is – where you come back to after being away on vacation, business trip, overseas or out-of-state employment, or school. Many factors are considered, not the least of which are where you are registered to vote, own homestead property and are licensed to drive.

The date you choose as the first day of residency can coincide with one of the following events:

• You or your spouse arrived in the state or country
• Your belongings arrived
• You or your spouse started work
• You started renting your new place
• You purchased your new home
• You or a family member enrolled in school
• You or your spouse registered to vote
• You or your spouse applied for a state driver's license