Frequently asked questions.

The Basics

  • CalFresh provides monthly financial assistance to individuals and families who qualify to purchase grocery items.

  • CalFresh benefits are issued monthly on an EBT card that works like a debit card and can be used at most grocery stores, some farmers markets, and online, including on Amazon, when locations allow.

  • There are some criteria students must meet to qualify for benefits, including income and student requirements.

    Contact your campus CalFresh team to request more information.

Applying for CalFresh

  • Think of CalFresh as financial aid that helps pay for some of your food.

    CalFresh allows you to worry less about groceries and stretch your food budget. The EBT card is easy to carry with you as you shop at the grocery store, farmers market, or even on campus.

  • Search for your campus CalFresh team to support you through the application process.

    Visit www.getcalfresh.org if you prefer to apply on your own.

  • Yes. Most campus CalFresh teams can work with you to apply and determine the most efficient way to work through the process.

  • Unfortunately, CalFresh is only available to legal permanent residents and US citizens. However, if you have other household members that do meet the citizenship requirements, you can apply for those household members.

    Most college campuses have a food pantry and basic needs resources to help with food insecurity.

  • If you meet eligibility requirements, some of the verifications you might be asked to turn in include:

    • Proof of residence (such as lease agreement, mail sent to your address)
    • Financial Aid documentation
    • Class schedule
    • Student ID
    • Proof of student status
    • Proof of income (if applicable)

  • Yes. If you had CalFresh but your benefits have been discontinued for any reason you can reapply.

    If it has been less than 60 days, contact your County CalFresh Office to try to rescind your discontinuance.

    If it’s been more than 60 days, you can apply for CalFresh again.

  • Search for your campus CalFresh Team to get support with the application process.

Benefits & Other Details

  • Yes, benefits roll over each month.

    • After 135 days of not using your EBT card, the county will stop access to it.
    • After 6 months of not using your EBT card, you will need to contact the county to reactivate it.
    • After 9 months of not using your EBT card, you will lose all benefits left on your card.

  • If eligible, you could receive up to $281. The amount students receive varies based on household size, income, and monthly expenses.

  • No. CalFresh is not considered income, therefore getting CalFresh as a student does not affect your financial aid.

  • No. CalFresh is a benefit you received if you qualify, and it does not affect taxes.

  • No. Your financial aid information is only used for CalFresh eligibility purposes, not to determine benefit allotment. Benefits received are based on income and expenses and determined by the county.

Using Your EBT Card

  • Most campuses have options to use your EBT card on food items. Search for your campus CalFresh team to learn more.

  • Most grocery stores and food marts, as well as Farmers’ Markets and Food Co-Ops.

    Look for an EBT sign in the window or ask a sales associate to find out more.

  • Yes, your benefits are not tied to the school year.

  • Some of the items you can purchase with an EBT card are:

    • Fruits & vegetables
    • Meat, poultry, & fish
    • Dairy products
    • Breads or cereals
    • Start-up edible plants