CalFresh Payment in California: If you live in California and you need help to buy food every month, CalFresh might be the help you’re looking for. CalFresh is the name for food stamps in California. It works just like SNAP, which is the federal food assistance program.
The money comes every month on an EBT card, which works like a debit card. You can use it at many places like grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and even some restaurants that accept it. If you’re a senior, have a disability, or don’t have stable housing, you can even buy hot meals at some food places with it.
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Maximum amounts by household size
From October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, the state has set new maximum amounts that families can get. These numbers change each year because food prices and needs also change. The government uses something called the Thrifty Food Plan to figure out how much money is enough for food each month. The bigger the family, the more you can get but that’s not thhe full story. You won’t always get the maximum amount.
Household size and maximum monthly payment
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
The real amount depends on your income and expenses. The state looks at your total income, then subtracts some allowed deductions like rent or childcare. What’s left is your “net income.” Then they take 30% of that net income and subtract it from the full amount you could get. The result is what they give you every month on your EBT card.
So let’s say your family of three could get a maximum amount, but you have some income. If your net income is $900, then they take 30% of that, which is $270. That $270 is subtracted from the full amount for your family size, and that’s how much CalFresh sends you every month. It’s designed to make sure people get help but also use their own money for food too.
Deductions to calculate net income for CalFresh
- Standard discounts: for example, $193/month (households of 1-3 people)
- Housing and utilities expenses that exceed 50% of net income.
- Childcare, medical (age/disability) and maintenance expenses, if applicable.
Example with a household of 3 people with rent and basic services
- Maximum amount: $768
- Gross monthly income: $2,500
- Deduction standard: $193
- Rent + utilities: $1,800 + SUA ($490 standard in California) = $2,290
- 50% of net income (after -$193): ($2,500 – $193) = $2,307 50% = $1,153
- Housing deduction: $2,290 – $1,153 = $1,137
- Net income: $2,307 – $1,137 = $1,170
- 30% of net income: $351
- Estimated CalFresh amount: $768 – $351 = $417/month
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CalFresh minimum guaranteed amount
- 1-2 person households: you receive at least $10 a month, if you qualify.
- Households of 3+ people: the minimum is $2, and increments are ensured (e.g. minimum $6 in small cases).
Important: If your income is above the limit, you may qualify for “0 benefits” and then receive nothing.
Special CalFresh Help for Students in California
If you’re a college student in California, CalFresh rules can be a little different. You might still get help, but the amount can be lower than for others. Many community college students get around $123 a month on average. At big universities like the University of California schools, students who qualify might get a little more than that.
But not all students can get CalFresh, so there are special rules just for them. You have to meet some conditions to be approved, like working a certain number of hours or being in a special program.
Requirements to qualify for CalFresh
To be eligible for CalFresh coupons, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a California resident and a citizen or have qualified immigration status.
- Have gross income below 200% of the federal poverty level (e.g. for a 3-person household: $4,304/month).
- Have a net income below 100% of the federal poverty level (e.g. household of 3: $2,152/month).
Where and how do I apply for CalFresh?
You can apply for:
- Internet: at GetCalFresh.org or BenefitsCal.com
- By phone or in person through your county
- Local social services offices (each county administers the program)
