CalFresh is California’s food assistance program designed to help low-income individuals and families afford nutritious food. It’s California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). This program offers financial aid to those in need by providing funds through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, helping residents buy food and support their health.
How Does CalFresh Work?
CalFresh benefits are distributed monthly through an EBT card, which is called the Golden State Advantage Card in California. The EBT card works just like a debit card, allowing users to purchase food at supermarkets, grocery stores, and participating farmers’ markets across the state.
Am I Eligible for CalFresh Benefits?
Eligibility for CalFresh depends on various factors such as income, household size, monthly expenses, and immigration status. Here’s what you need to know:
- Income: To qualify for CalFresh, your gross monthly income (before any deductions) must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. In 2025, this means:
- A single person can earn up to $2,510 per month.
- A two-person household can earn up to $3,408 per month.
- Documentation: You’ll need to provide proof of income, rent, and any medical expenses to help the SSA determine your eligibility.
Who Else Can Receive CalFresh Benefits?
Besides general eligibility, there are some groups with specific rules:
- College students: Most full-time college students don’t qualify for CalFresh. However, students who work at least 20 hours per week or are part of recognized state or federal job training programs may be eligible.
- Immigrants: U.S. citizens and some legal immigrants are eligible. However, undocumented parents cannot receive benefits, but they can apply for their U.S.-born children.
- Older adults and people with disabilities: These groups may have higher asset limits and additional deductions for medical expenses, which makes it easier for them to qualify for CalFresh benefits.
What Can You Buy with CalFresh Benefits?
CalFresh benefits can be used to purchase a wide variety of nutritious foods, including:
- Fruits and vegetables (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Grains like bread, cereal, rice, and pasta
- Seeds and plants intended for home food production
However, there are some restrictions on what CalFresh funds cannot be used for, including:
- Hot foods prepared for immediate consumption
- Alcoholic beverages and tobacco
- Vitamins, supplements, and medications
- Non-food items like cleaning products, personal hygiene items, or household goods
How to Make Your CalFresh Benefits Go Further: Double Up Food Bucks
In California, you can double your CalFresh money by using the Double Up Food Bucks program. This program allows you to get an additional dollar for every dollar spent on fresh fruits and vegetables at participating stores and farmers’ markets. The bonus can be used only for fresh produce, and each household can receive up to $60 in additional benefits per month.
When Will Your CalFresh Benefits Arrive in June 2025?
CalFresh benefits are distributed between the 1st and 10th of each month. The exact date of your deposit depends on the last digit of your case number. Here’s the distribution schedule for June 2025:
- Case number ends in 1: June 1
- Case number ends in 2: June 2
- Case number ends in 3: June 3
- Case number ends in 4: June 4
- Case number ends in 5: June 5
- Case number ends in 6: June 6
- Case number ends in 7: June 7
- Case number ends in 8: June 8
- Case number ends in 9: June 9
- Case number ends in 0: June 10
This staggered distribution helps ensure that there is a smooth flow of benefits throughout the first 10 days of the month.
CalFresh is an important program that helps low-income residents of California access nutritious food. By understanding your eligibility, what you can and can’t buy, and how to maximize your benefits, you can make the most out of the assistance available to you.
The Double Up Food Bucks program is a great way to stretch your benefits even further. Remember to keep an eye on the payment schedule and ensure you have all your documentation in place for a smooth application process.