The CalFresh program, equivalent to food stamps, or SNAP benefits (as they are known at the federal level) is the initiative in which the state of California manages the distribution of resources for low-income families, who need to make ends meet and feed their family.
Just exactly like the SNAP benefits in all states, beneficiaries have to recertify their eligibility from time to time: in each particular case, the recipient is told how often they have to renew the eligibility of their allowances. Usually, you can perform the recertification in your county of residence, but not all counties offer this possibility (you can find out about it here).
Who Has to Recertify CalFresh Benefits?
When the time comes to recertify your benefits, the entity that manages your CalFresh allowance will notify you by email, postal mail, or phone, as appropriate in your case. Afterward, you will be asked to attend the nearest office to submit your application, or you will be told how you can do it online (if you qualify).
If you have a disability or need help with the recertification application, let your county Welfare Department know, and someone will help you.
To carry out your recertification correctly, you must have the following documents (others may be required, in specific cases):
- Proof of identity: Your driver’s license, state ID card or passport.
- Proof of income: Pay stubs, bank statements, tax returns or government attendance vouchers.
- Proof of residency: A utility bill, a lease agreement, or a letter from your landlord.
- Proof of expenses: Receipts for child care or medical.
- Proof of marital status: Marriage or divorce certificate.
- Proof of citizenship: If you are not a U.S. citizen, please provide your green card or other immigration document.
You can get the form online at the official website of the California Department of Social Services (https://www.cdss.ca.gov/), or at your local CalFresh office, and it is with that form that you must attach all the documents that are requested. Remember to always answer with the truth and with total honesty, because lying on the application could lead to the termination of CalFresh assignments for you and your family.
If the CalFresh caseworker deems it necessary, you will be asked to attend a face-to-face interview at the local office, where you will be asked to expand or clarify data you provided in the application.
Learn More: Calfresh May 2024 Payment: When Will Food Stamps Be Paid in California?
More Money For Families: CalFresh Launch the SUN Bucks Food Program
Starting this summer, your child will have access to more variety of foods thanks to California SUN Bucks, also known as Summer-EBT. SUN Bucks works similarly to CalFresh, but it is designed especially for the summer season.
Children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals through a School meals application or an Alternative Admission Form, or who receive CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi-Cal benefits, will be automatically enrolled. You do not need to take any action to register. SUN Bucks provides an additional $40 per month for food during June, July and August 2024 ($120 total).
Children who wish to qualify to receive the SUN Bucks have to meet the following socio-economic characteristics:
- Children ages 6 to 18 receiving CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi-Cal (certified at or below 185% of the federal poverty level).
- Children ages 0-22 who attend a school participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or the School Breakfast Program (SBP) and are determined to be eligible for free or reduced-price meals based on a School meals application or Alternative Income Form.
- Children ages 0-22 years who were NOT previously determined eligible for free or reduced-price meals at school could also be considered eligible for SUN Bucks.
For the most eligible children, the SUN Bucks application will be automatic, through a process called. ‘Streamlined Certification.’ So, basically, a formal application is not necessary. To learn more and apply, please visit How to Get SUN Bucks.