New CalFresh payments (SNAP Benefits, but in California) are being distributed this week to millions of beneficiaries throughout the Golden State since, although payments began on March 1, they are still extended until March 10, depending on the last digit of the beneficiary’s case.
Imagine a debit card that is reloaded each month with money specifically to buy food. That’s basically what CalFresh offers. It is the name of the federal SNAP (nutrition assistance) program in California, and it is designed so that low-income households can access nutritious foods without stress. The EBT card you use works at most grocery stores, farmers markets, and even some restaurants (depending on your situation).
CalFresh (SNAP) amounts in March 2025
How much money do you have? Well, this depends on several things, but mainly on how many people are in your household and what your income levels are. For March 2025, the maximum amounts are updated and are these (according to the household’s size):
- 1-person household: $292
- 2 people household: $536
- 3 people household: $768
- 4 people household: $975
- 5 people household: $1,158
- 6 people household: $1,390
- 7 people household: $1,536
- 8 people household: $1,756
- Each extra: +$220
How do you know if you qualify for CalFresh?
The requirements are not that complicated:
- Income: Generally, they should not exceed 200% of the federal poverty level (but there is flexibility for older adults or people with disabilities).
- Deductible expenses: Some expenses such as rent, medical services or child care can reduce your net income, which increases your benefit.
- Are you a student, older adult or do you have a special situation? Some groups have different rules, so check the CalFresh website or ask your county directly.
The payment dates are the following in the month of March
CalFresh benefits (food) are sent during the first 10 days of each month, based on the last digit of your case number. Your case number should be included on most documents you receive from your county and is also available online at BenefitsCal if you have an account:
- Case # ends in 1: benefits available on the 1st of the month
- Case # ends in 2: benefits available on the 2nd of the month
- Case # ends in 3: benefits available on the 3rd of the month
- Case # ends in 4: benefits available on the 4th of the month
- Case # ends in 5: benefits available on the 5th of the month
- Case # ends in 6: benefits available on the 6th of the month
- Case # ends in 7: benefits available on the 7th of the month
- Case # ends in 8: benefits available on the 8th of the month
- Case # ends in 9: benefits available on the 9th of the month
- Case # ends in 0: benefits available on the 10th of the month
- If you receive CalWORKS (cash assistance), that EBT cash deposit is made to your card during the first 3 calendar days of the month.
CalFresh typically does not allow you to purchase hot food (only foods you prepare at home). But, until March 10, 2025, in counties such as Los Angeles, Riverside or San Diego, there is a special exemption for wildfires. This means that if you live in those areas, you will be able to use your EBT card to purchase ready-to-eat food (hot sandwiches, pizza, etc.) at authorized locations.