CalFresh, California’s food assistance program, provides crucial support to low-income families, ensuring access to nutritious meals and reducing food insecurity. As the new year begins, beneficiaries should prepare for their January 2025 payments. Here’s everything you need to know about payment schedules, eligibility, and how to apply for CalFresh benefits.
Table of Contents
When Will CalFresh Payments Arrive in January 2025?
CalFresh benefits are distributed during the first 10 days of each month, based on the last digit of the recipient’s case number. Payments are made via an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, which can be used at participating retailers for approved food purchases.
Here’s the January 2025 payment schedule based on case numbers:
| Payment Date | Last Digit of Case Number |
|---|---|
| January 1, 2025 | 1 |
| January 2, 2025 | 2 |
| January 3, 2025 | 3 |
| January 4, 2025 | 4 |
| January 5, 2025 | 5 |
| January 6, 2025 | 6 |
| January 7, 2025 | 7 |
| January 8, 2025 | 8 |
| January 9, 2025 | 9 |
| January 10, 2025 | 0 |
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How to Use Your CalFresh Benefits
The EBT card allows beneficiaries to purchase nutritious food items at approved grocery stores. However, certain items are restricted, including:
- Hot prepared foods
- Vitamins and supplements
- Alcoholic beverages
- Pet food and household supplies
Proper planning and adherence to these restrictions are essential to avoid penalties or disruptions in benefits.
Who Is Eligible for CalFresh?
To qualify for CalFresh, applicants must meet specific criteria:
Basic Eligibility Requirements
- Income: Little to no income or property ownership.
- Residency: U.S. citizens or lawful residents.
- Supplementary Assistance: Receiving General Relief, CalWORKs, SSI/SSP, or State Supplementary Payments.
Eligibility for Immigrants
Non-citizen immigrants may qualify under the following conditions:
- Participants in the Trafficking and Crime Victim Assistance Program (TCVAP) who have applied or plan to apply for a T-Visa.
- Victims of domestic abuse or serious crimes who have applied for a U-Visa.
- Violence Against Women Act (VAWA) self-petitioners.
Note: Immigrants in these categories do not require a Social Security number but must meet other CalFresh eligibility criteria, including income limits.
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How to Apply for CalFresh Benefits
Applying for CalFresh benefits is straightforward and can be done using one of the following methods:
Online
- Visit the BenefitsCal website to complete your application online.
In-Person
- Visit any CalFresh Outreach partner or DPSS District Office to apply in person.
By Mail or Fax
- Submit your application by mail to your local DPSS District Office.
- Fax your application to (310) 215-8220.
Customer Service Hours
If you need assistance, CalFresh customer service is available:
- Monday to Friday: 7:30 AM to 6:30 PM.
Plan Ahead for Your January Benefits
With payments distributed between January 1 and January 10, 2025, CalFresh beneficiaries should plan ahead to ensure their benefits are used effectively. Whether you’re a long-time recipient or considering applying, CalFresh remains a vital lifeline for many California families.
For more information or to begin your application, visit the California Department of Social Services website or contact your local DPSS office.
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