As October begins, California residents relying on CalFresh are preparing for the latest distribution of their benefits. Understanding when and how payments are made is essential for those planning their grocery needs for the month. CalFresh is California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), offering monthly assistance to low-income individuals and families to help purchase healthy food.
Benefits are provided through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which works similarly to a debit card at participating grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets across the state.
How to apply for CalFresh benefits
If you’re looking to apply for CalFresh benefits, the process is straightforward. You can visit the ‘Get CalFresh’ website and fill out the application form online. After submitting your application, your county will contact you within a couple of weeks to schedule an eligibility interview.
Once approved, you should receive your EBT card within 10 days. Alternatively, you can apply over the phone by contacting your local California Department of Social Services (CDSS) office at (866) 613-3777. Make sure to have necessary documents available, such as proof of identity, income details, and any relevant immigration status information.
CalFresh payment schedule
The specific date each month that benefits are added to an EBT card depends on a recipient’s CalFresh case number.
The payment schedule is determined by the last digit of your case number. For example, if your case number ends in a ‘1,’ you will receive your benefits on the 1st of the month. Below is the distribution schedule for October:
- October 1: Case numbers ending in 1
- October 2: Case numbers ending in 2
- October 3: Case numbers ending in 3
- October 4: Case numbers ending in 4
- October 5: Case numbers ending in 5
- October 6: Case numbers ending in 6
- October 7: Case numbers ending in 7
- October 8: Case numbers ending in 8
- October 9: Case numbers ending in 9
- October 10: Case numbers ending in 0
