As of November 2024, CalFresh (California’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP) has announced updates to its payment schedule and benefit amounts.
These adjustments, effective from November 1, reflect the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA), aimed at helping recipients maintain purchasing power amid inflation.
Here’s a verified breakdown of eligibility requirements, payment schedules, and the impact of the 2025 COLA on benefit amounts.
1. Payment Schedule for November 2024
CalFresh follows a specific schedule based on recipients’ case numbers:
- Payments Distributed November 1–10: Payments are staggered, with distribution dates tied to the last digit of each recipient’s case number. This setup ensures a smooth flow of funds and efficient fund management by the state.
| Case Number Ending in | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | November 1 |
| 2 | November 2 |
| 3 | November 3 |
| 4 | November 4 |
| 5 | November 5 |
| 6 | November 6 |
| 7 | November 7 |
| 8 | November 8 |
| 9 | November 9 |
| 0 | November 10 |
2. Increased Benefit Amounts Due to COLA
The 2025 COLA adjustment for CalFresh benefits is modest but significant for beneficiaries. The adjustment increases maximum monthly benefits as follows:
- Single individuals: Now eligible for a maximum of $292 per month, a $1 increase.
- Families of eight: Maximum benefit increased from $1,751 to $1,756, providing an additional $5 per month or $60 annually.
These updates aim to help recipients manage rising grocery costs and food insecurity, albeit modestly.
| Household Size | Monthly Benefit (2025) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
3. Eligibility and Requirements for CalFresh
Eligibility for CalFresh is based on income and resources:
- Income Limits: Applicants must meet monthly income limits based on household size, adjusted annually.
- Work Requirements for ABAWDs: Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) aged 53–54 must meet certain work requirements (work or training programs) to continue receiving benefits.
4. How to Check CalFresh Payment Status
CalFresh recipients can check their benefit status via:
- EBT Card: Using the EBT card at stores or ATMs.
- Online Account: Logging into the California EBT website.
- CalFresh Customer Service: Contacting customer service via the number on the back of the EBT card.
The 2025 COLA adjustment for CalFresh reflects a small but helpful increase, providing much-needed support to low-income Californians.
By staying informed about payment schedules, eligibility criteria, and benefit amounts, recipients can better manage their food assistance. For official updates, always consult the CalFresh website or a local CalFresh office.
