The CalFresh program (locally known as SNAP benefits) is a monthly stipend provided by the state of California for food. Consider it a card (similar to a debit card) that you reload each month with a specific amount based on your needs. It is accepted at the majority of supermarkets, farmers markets, and some online stores.
CalFresh’s main goal is simple but critical: to help you and your family put enough nutritious food on the table when money is tight. It is not a luxury; it is basic support that ensures no one goes hungry or has to choose between paying the electric bill and purchasing fresh food. Eating healthy is a right!
Who qualifies for CalFresh benefits in 2025?
Who can apply for CalFresh? Well, more people than you might expect. It is not limited to those without jobs or with large families. If you live in California and your income (after certain expenses such as rent or utilities) falls below a threshold based on your household size, you may be eligible.
The Federal Poverty Level serves as the threshold. For households without any elderly or disabled members, the gross monthly income must be at or below 200% of the FPL. For example, a single-person household cannot earn more than $2,510 per month before taxes, whereas a three-person household cannot earn more than $4,304.
This includes people who work but make a low wage, students who meet certain criteria, older adults on fixed incomes, people with disabilities, and families with children. Even if you own a home or a car, you could still be eligible.
The important thing is that you are experiencing financial difficulties. If you are hesitant, it is always a good idea to apply! You can get started at https://benefitscal.com/.
The final CalFresh benefits for July will be paid next week.
CalFresh benefits are distributed within the first ten days of the month, based on the last digit of the case number assigned to the beneficiary when they request payment. Check the table below to see if your payments are expected to arrive within the next few days.
| Last Digit | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | July 1 |
| 2 | July 2 |
| 3 | July 3 |
| 4 | July 4 |
| 5 | July 5 |
| 6 | July 6 |
| 7 | July 7 |
| 8 | July 8 |
| 9 | July 9 |
| 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 amount that a household can apply for is determined by a number of factors, the most important of which is household size. The funds are deposited monthly into an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) called the “Golden State Advantage card”.
To give you an idea, if you live alone, the maximum monthly support is $292. For two people living together, the cost rises to $536. Families with three children could receive up to $768, while those with four children could receive $975.
For five people, the total is $1,158; for six, $1,390. Larger families: seven people receive a maximum of $1,536, eight people $1,756, and each additional member after eight gets an additional $220. These amounts are extremely helpful in getting fresh, nutritious food on the table when you need it the most.
