The CalFresh program, also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), is designed to help low-income residents in California buy basic food items.
This program plays a crucial role in supporting more than 5 million Californians, including families, elderly people, individuals with disabilities, and even certain college students. Here’s a breakdown of what CalFresh is, how it works, and how you can apply for assistance.
What is CalFresh and How Does It Work?
CalFresh, locally known as the state’s SNAP program, provides food assistance to people who meet specific income requirements. It is federally funded but managed locally by the California Department of Social Services. This program aims to make food affordable for those in need and helps them purchase basic food items.
The benefits are distributed monthly to eligible households, and the money is put onto an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used at authorized retailers. The amount a household receives is determined based on their income and household size.
When Are CalFresh Benefits Distributed?
CalFresh benefits are distributed between June 1 and June 10, depending on the last digit of your case number. For example, if your case number ends in “5,” you will receive your benefits on the 5th of June. This system helps organize the distribution of aid and ensures that all eligible recipients receive their assistance in a timely manner.
Who is Eligible for CalFresh?
Eligibility for CalFresh benefits is determined by factors such as income, household size, and immigration status. The program serves a wide range of people, including:
- Low-income households
- Single-parent families
- Elderly individuals
- People with disabilities
- College students with specific criteria
In addition, people who are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are also eligible for CalFresh. This includes over 725,000 people in California, and the combined annual benefits for this group amount to $1.24 billion. This integration helps these individuals meet their basic food needs.
How Much Can You Receive from CalFresh?
The amount you can receive from CalFresh depends on the size of your household. Here are the maximum amounts for each household size in 2025:
- 1 person: $292
- 2 people: $536
- 3 people: $768
- 4 people: $975
- 5 people: $1,158
- 6 people: $1,390
- 7 people: $1,536
- 8 people: $1,756
For households larger than eight, $220 is added for each additional member. These amounts follow the federal payment limits set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture and apply to California as well as other states.
How to Apply for CalFresh
If you are eligible and want to apply for CalFresh benefits, you can visit GetCalFresh.org or call (866) 613-3777. The application process requires providing identification, proof of income, and your immigration status. Counties respond to applications within two weeks, and once approved, you will receive an EBT card within 10 business days.
The amount of benefits you will receive depends on your net income (after deductions). Various financial resources, including retirement benefits and SSI, may impact the total amount of assistance.
Checking Your CalFresh Status
You can check the status of your CalFresh benefits by visiting BenefitsCal.com, calling 1-877-847-3663, or going to your local California Department of Social Services (CDSS) office. These platforms allow you to see the deposit dates and the amount of assistance you have left.