CalFresh, California’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), provides essential food assistance to low-income households. With maximum monthly benefits reaching $1,756 for larger families, CalFresh helps millions afford nutritious meals.
If you’re struggling with food costs, this guide covers everything you need to know about CalFresh, including eligibility, benefit amounts, the application process, and payment schedules.
CalFresh SNAP Benefits: Key Details
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | CalFresh (California’s SNAP Program) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Low-income households, U.S. citizens or qualified immigrants; income and resource limits apply |
| Application Methods | Online (BenefitsCal, GetCalFresh), phone, mail, or in person |
| Benefit Amounts | Up to $1,756/month based on household size |
| Payment Schedule | Benefits distributed from the 1st to the 10th of each month, based on case number |
| Special Rules | Special eligibility criteria for students, elderly, disabled, and immigrants |
| Official Resource | California Department of Social Services – CalFresh |
What Is CalFresh?
CalFresh is California’s version of SNAP, a federal program designed to help low-income individuals and families buy nutritious food. Recipients receive monthly benefits on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used at:
- Grocery stores
- Farmers’ markets
- Approved online retailers like Amazon and Walmart
CalFresh is available not just for unemployed individuals, but also for working families struggling with food insecurity.
Who Is Eligible for CalFresh?
To qualify for CalFresh, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Residency and Citizenship
- Must live in California
- At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant
2. Income Limits (2024-2025)
Your gross monthly income must be at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 Person | $2,430 |
| 2 People | $3,288 |
| 3 People | $4,144 |
| 4 People | $5,000 |
| 5 People | $5,858 |
| 6 People | $6,714 |
| 7 People | $7,570 |
| 8 People | $8,426 |
| Each Additional Person | +$856 |
Certain deductions (such as housing costs, medical expenses, child care, and dependent support) may reduce your countable income and increase your benefits.
3. Resource Limits
- Most households must have less than $2,750 in countable resources (e.g., bank accounts).
- Households with an elderly or disabled member may have up to $4,250 in assets.
4. Work Requirements
- Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) must work at least 20 hours per week or participate in an approved employment program.
- Exemptions apply to students, seniors, and disabled individuals.
How to Apply for $1,756 Through CalFresh SNAP
Applying for CalFresh is free and easy. You can apply using one of the following methods:
1. Apply Online
- GetCalFresh.org – Fastest way to apply
- BenefitsCal.com – Official state portal
2. Apply by Phone
- Call your local county office to apply over the phone.
3. Apply by Mail or Fax
- Download the CalFresh application, fill it out, and send it by mail or fax to your county social services office.
4. Apply In-Person
- Visit your nearest county social services office to apply.
How to Check Your CalFresh Application Status
After applying, you can check your status in the following ways:
| Method | How to Check |
|---|---|
| Online | Log in at BenefitsCal.com |
| By Phone | Call your local county office |
| In-Person | Visit your county social services agency |
If approved, you’ll receive an EBT card within 30 days (or within 3 days if you qualify for expedited benefits).
CalFresh Benefit Amounts (2024-2025)
Your CalFresh benefit amount depends on your household size and income.
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 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 |
| Each Additional Person | +$220 |
CalFresh Payment Schedule
CalFresh SNAP benefits are distributed between the 1st and 10th of each month, based on the last digit of your case number:
| Last Digit of Case Number | Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | 1st |
| 2 | 2nd |
| 3 | 3rd |
| 4 | 4th |
| 5 | 5th |
| 6 | 6th |
| 7 | 7th |
| 8 | 8th |
| 9 | 9th |
| 0 | 10th |
CalFresh provides vital food assistance to low-income Californians, helping them afford healthy meals. If you meet the income and eligibility criteria, applying for CalFresh benefits can significantly reduce food insecurity.
To maximize your benefits:
- Check your eligibility based on income, household size, and expenses.
- Apply online for faster processing through GetCalFresh.org or BenefitsCal.com.
- Renew your benefits on time to avoid disruptions.
For more details, visit the California Department of Social Services website.
FAQs
How much can I get in CalFresh benefits?
The maximum benefit is $1,756 for an eight-person household, with smaller households receiving less.
Can I use CalFresh benefits to buy hot food?
No, CalFresh benefits can only be used for uncooked grocery items like fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and bread.
