For those receiving help with food through the CalFresh program, known nationally as SNAP, important updates regarding the July 2025 payments are available. CalFresh benefits are deposited each month onto an EBT card, also known as the “Golden State Advantage” card.
This program helps low-income households access nutritious food. You can use the card at many authorized locations, including most supermarkets and farmers’ markets.
CalFresh Payment Dates
CalFresh payment dates are not the same for everyone and are based on the last digit of your case number. You can find this number in your county paperwork or in your BenefitsCal online account. Once you identify the last number of your case number, you’ll know when your payment is due.
For most recipients, 92% of cases, the funds are deposited at midnight on the due date. However, if you don’t see the deposit first thing in the morning, don’t panic—there might be a slight delay, and it could appear later in the day. If it hasn’t been deposited by the end of the day, you can contact the appropriate authorities.
Maximum SSI Amounts for July 2025
The amounts you can receive in CalFresh benefits depend on your household size and income. The following are the maximum amounts based on household size, effective for July 2025:
For 1 person, the maximum amount is $292.
For 2 people, the maximum amount is $536.
For 3 people, the maximum amount is $768.
For 4 people, the maximum amount is $975.
For 5 people, the maximum amount is $1,158.
For 6 people, the maximum amount is $1,390.
For 7 people, the maximum amount is $1,536.
For 8 people, the maximum amount is $1,756.
For each additional person, you can add $220.
How Your CalFresh Benefit is Calculated
The benefit amount isn’t fixed and can vary based on factors like your gross income and allowable deductible expenses. For example, expenses like rent, utility bills, and medical costs (for households with seniors or people with disabilities) can reduce your net income and potentially increase your benefit.
The federal government adjusts the maximum benefit amounts each year, with the current amounts for October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025 being listed above. However, what you actually receive may be less than these maximum limits based on the following calculation method.
The first step in the process is calculating your gross income, which is your income before taxes. Then, a standard deduction is applied—approximately $193 for families of 1 to 3 people in 2025. After that, other allowable deductions are subtracted, such as rent or medical expenses (if applicable). This reduces your net income.
From this adjusted net income, the household is expected to contribute 30% toward food. This amount is subtracted from the maximum benefit for your household size.
For example, if a family of four has a net income of $1,000, their expected contribution is $300 (30% of $1,000). The maximum amount for four people is $975, so the monthly benefit would be $975 – $300 = $675.
Factors That Can Reduce Your CalFresh Benefits
Several factors can impact the amount of CalFresh benefits you receive. Increased household income will generally lead to a reduction in benefits, as the system expects you to spend more of your own money on food. Conversely, if you have high deductible expenses, such as high rent, it could increase your benefit by reducing your net income.
Additionally, households with people aged 60 or older or those with disabilities can claim more medical expenses as deductions, and the income limits for such households are higher.
What You Can and Cannot Buy with Your EBT Card
The EBT card is used to buy food for your family, and it works at most supermarkets and participating farmers’ markets. In specific cases, such as for the homeless, elderly, or disabled, the card can be used at some authorized restaurants for prepared meals.
You can also use your benefits to purchase seeds and plants to grow your own food. For example, you can buy tomato plants, herbs, or other home garden supplies.
Eligible Items You Can Purchase
With your EBT card, you can buy:
Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables (no added sugar or salt).
Meats, poultry, and fish (fresh, frozen, or canned, such as tuna or chicken).
Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt, eggs).
Bread, cereals, and grains (rice, pasta, oatmeal, tortillas).
Baby foods (infant formula, baby cereal, and baby food).
Healthy snacks (unsweetened nuts, unbuttered popcorn).
Items You Cannot Buy with Your EBT Card
However, there are restrictions on what you can purchase with your EBT card. You cannot buy:
Prepared hot meals, unless you are elderly, homeless, or disabled and purchasing from an approved establishment.
Alcohol (beer, wine, spirits).
Tobacco products.
Vitamins or supplements, even in the form of gummies or powders.
Non-food items such as soap, toilet paper, or pet food.
Ready-to-eat foods, such as a rotisserie chicken from the store (unless through an approved program).
Candy and sweets.
Maintaining Eligibility
To continue receiving your CalFresh benefits, it is crucial to stay eligible. This involves completing necessary tasks like recertifying when required, submitting your SAR-7 report on time every few months, and complying with work rules if applicable to your situation. If you fail to meet these requirements, your benefits may be suspended.