For low-income families in California, CalFresh and CalWORKs provide essential support to help cover food and basic living expenses. As we approach March 2025, it is important for beneficiaries to understand eligibility requirements, payment schedules, and benefit amounts to ensure timely access to assistance.
While CalWORKs provides cash aid, food assistance is distributed through CalFresh, California’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). If you need help with food expenses, this guide explains how to qualify, apply, and receive benefits.
Key Details About CalFresh in March 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | CalFresh (California’s SNAP Program) |
| March 2025 Payment Dates | March 1–10, based on case number |
| Maximum Monthly Benefit | $292 (1 person), $536 (2 people), $975 (4 people), $1,756 (8 people) |
| Eligibility Requirements | Low-income, California resident, U.S. citizen/legal resident, income below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) |
| Work Requirements | Able-bodied adults (18–54) must work 80 hours/month unless exempt |
| Application Methods | Online, by phone, or at county offices |
| Official Website | California Department of Social Services |
In March 2025, CalFresh will continue to help food-insecure households by providing monthly benefits ranging from $292 to $1,756, depending on household size.
What Is CalFresh and How Does It Work?
CalFresh is California’s food assistance program that helps eligible households purchase nutritious food. The program operates under SNAP, ensuring that low-income individuals and families receive monthly benefits via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card.
How Does the EBT Card Work?
- The EBT card works like a debit card and can be used at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and participating retailers.
- Eligible elderly, homeless, and disabled individuals can also use their EBT card at select restaurants through the CalFresh Restaurant Meals Program.
CalFresh Eligibility Criteria for March 2025
To qualify for CalFresh benefits in March 2025, applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements:
1. Residency & Citizenship
- Applicants must live in California and intend to stay in the state.
- At least one household member must be a U.S. citizen, legal immigrant, or qualified alien.
2. Income Limits
Most applicants must have a gross monthly income at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
2025 FPL Guidelines for CalFresh Eligibility:
| Household Size | Maximum Gross Monthly Income (200% FPL) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,430 |
| 2 | $3,288 |
| 3 | $4,144 |
| 4 | $5,000 |
| 5 | $5,858 |
| 6 | $6,714 |
| 7 | $7,570 |
| 8 | $8,428 |
3. Work Requirements
- Able-bodied adults without dependents (ABAWDs) aged 18–54 must:
- Work 80 hours per month or participate in a work program.
- Exemptions apply to:
- Pregnant women
- Disabled individuals
- Veterans
- Homeless persons
- Former foster care youth under age 25
CalFresh Benefit Amounts for March 2025
CalFresh benefits are adjusted annually. Below are the maximum benefit amounts for March 2025:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
| Each additional person | +$220 |
CalFresh Payment Schedule for March 2025
CalFresh benefits are distributed from March 1–10, 2025, based on the last digit of the recipient’s case number.
| Last Digit of Case Number | EBT Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | March 1 |
| 2 | March 2 |
| 3 | March 3 |
| 4 | March 4 |
| 5 | March 5 |
| 6 | March 6 |
| 7 | March 7 |
| 8 | March 8 |
| 9 | March 9 |
| 0 | March 10 |
How to Apply for CalFresh Benefits
Applying for CalFresh benefits is simple and can be done in three ways:
1. Apply Online
- Visit BenefitsCal.com to start your application.
2. Apply by Phone
- Call your county social services office to apply over the phone.
3. Apply In-Person
- Visit your local county assistance office to complete your application.
FAQ:
How much will I receive in food benefits?
Benefit amounts depend on household size, income, and expenses. The maximum monthly benefit ranges from $292 (single person) to $1,756 (eight-person household).
When will I receive my CalFresh benefits?
Payments are deposited based on your case number, between March 1–10, 2025.
Can I use CalFresh benefits at restaurants?
Yes, eligible elderly, disabled, and homeless individuals can use their EBT card at select restaurants through the Restaurant Meals Program.
Do CalFresh benefits expire?
Unused benefits roll over each month, but funds must be used within 365 days.
