The CalFresh program (the local name for SNAP benefits) is a monthly stipend from the state of California specifically for food. Think of it as a card (similar to a debit card) that you reload each month with an amount based on your circumstances. You can use it at most supermarkets, farmers markets, and even some online stores.
CalFresh’s main goal is simple, but incredibly important: to help you and your family put enough nutritious food on the table when income is tight. It’s not a luxury; it’s basic support, so no one has to go hungry or choose between paying the electricity bill or buying fresh food. Eating well is a right!
Who is eligible for CalFresh benefits in 2025?
Who can apply for CalFresh? Well, more people than you might think. It’s not just for people without jobs or with large families. If you live in California and your income (after certain expenses like rent or utilities) is below a threshold that takes into account your household size, you may qualify.
The threshold is the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). For households without elderly or disabled members, the gross monthly income must be at or below 200% of the FPL. For example, a single-person household must earn no more than $2,510 per month before taxes, while a three-person household must stay under $4,304.
This includes people who are working but earning low wages, students who meet certain requirements, older adults on limited fixed incomes, people with disabilities, and families with children. Even if you own a home or a car, you may still be eligible.
The important thing is that you’re going through a tight financial situation. If you’re hesitating, it’s always worth applying! You can start on the website: https://benefitscal.com/.
The last CalFresh benefits for July will be paid next week
CalFresh benefits are distributed during the first 10 days of the month, depending on the last digit of the case number assigned to the beneficiary when requesting payments. Check the table below to see if your payments are expected to arrive in the next few days:
- Last digit 1: July 1
- Last digit 2: July 2
- Last digit 3: July 3
- Last digit 4: July 4
- Last digit 5: July 5
- Last digit 6: July 6
- Last digit 7: July 7
- Last digit 8: July 8
- Last digit 9: July 9
- Last digit 0: July 10
Between July 5 and 10, the benefits of those ending in 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 0 are charged, as can be seen from the table above.
The top amounts for CalFresh EBT payments
The maximum amounts a household can apply for depend on several factors, but primarily on household size. The money is monthly deposited in an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) called “Golden State Advantage card”. To give you an idea: if you live alone, the maximum support would be $292 per month. For two people living together, it rises to $536. Families of three could receive up to $768, and those of four, $975.
For five people, the amount reaches $1,158; for six, $1,390. Larger families: seven people would receive a maximum of $1,536, eight people $1,756, and for each additional member after eight, an additional $220 is added. These amounts are a real help in putting fresh, nutritious food on your table when you need it most.
