CalFresh is California's Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) that provides monthly food benefits to low-income individuals and families to purchase nutritious food.
CalFresh is available to individuals and families with low incomes. Eligibility is based on household size, income, and other factors such as expenses and residency.
Yes, some college students may qualify if they meet certain criteria, such as working a minimum of 20 hours per week, receiving certain types of financial aid, or participating in a work-study program.
You can apply for CalFresh online through your county's social services website, in person at a local county office, or by mail or fax.
Required documents typically include proof of identity, residency, income, and expenses. This can include items like a driver's license, rent or mortgage receipts, pay stubs, and utility bills.
CalFresh benefits are issued monthly on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card and can be used at authorized retail food stores.
You can buy most foods for home preparation and consumption, such as fruits, vegetables, meats, dairy products, and bread. You cannot use CalFresh benefits to buy non-food items, alcohol, tobacco, or hot prepared foods.
You can check your EBT card balance by calling the customer service number on the back of your card, checking online through your state's EBT portal, or using an EBT mobile app.
Report changes such as income, household size, or address to your county's social services office as soon as possible. This can often be done online, by mail, or in person.
Immediately contact the EBT customer service hotline at (877) 847-3663 to report your card as lost or stolen.
Yes, you can receive CalFresh benefits in addition to other benefits such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), unemployment benefits, and Medi-Cal, depending on your household's total income and resources.
You can find additional help through community organizations, food banks, or your local county social services office. Many of these organizations offer assistance with completing the application and understanding eligibility requirements.
Disclaimer: Contact information is believed reliable but not guaranteed. Executives change contact details frequently. If an email bounces or a number is wrong, report it immediately. Published July 30, 2024. Updated August 24, 2025.
