Starting November 1, 2024, CalFresh beneficiaries in California will see an increase in their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
CalFresh, California’s version of SNAP, provides essential food assistance to low-income individuals and families. The COLA aims to help recipients keep up with inflation by increasing the maximum benefit amounts.
This article covers the updated payment amounts, eligibility criteria, and November payment schedule.
Overview of the CalFresh COLA Increase
The COLA adjustment for CalFresh is small, but it helps beneficiaries maintain their food purchasing power. Here’s how the benefit amounts will change:
- Single Recipients: The maximum benefit for individuals will increase from $291 to $292 per month.
- Larger Households: For example, a household of eight will now receive a maximum benefit of $1,756, up from $1,751.
These adjustments may appear modest, but every increase contributes to the grocery budgets of households relying on CalFresh.
CalFresh November 2024 Payment Schedule
CalFresh benefits are distributed monthly, with payment dates organized by the last digit of each recipient’s case number. Here’s the schedule for November 2024:
| Ending of Case Number | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | November 1 |
| 2 | November 2 |
| 3 | November 3 |
| 4 | November 4 |
| 5 | November 5 |
| 6 | November 6 |
| 7 | November 7 |
| 8 | November 8 |
| 9 | November 9 |
| 0 | November 10 |
Knowing your case number’s final digit will help you track your payment date each month.
Updated CalFresh Benefit Amounts for 2025
The new monthly benefit limits are based on household size and reflect the recent COLA adjustments:
| 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 |
For households with more than eight members, an additional amount is provided for each extra person.
Eligibility Requirements for CalFresh in 2024
Eligibility for CalFresh is managed by the Food Stamps office and primarily depends on income, resources, and household size. Here’s a summary of the requirements:
- Income and Resources: Applicants must meet specific income and asset limits. These limits vary depending on the household size and overall financial situation.
- Work Requirements for ABAWDs: Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs) aged 53-54 must participate in approved work or training programs. Failing to meet these requirements may result in reduced or limited benefits.
- Expenses: Household expenses, such as housing costs, medical expenses, and dependent care costs, can also influence eligibility.
How to Check CalFresh Payment Status
To check the status of your CalFresh benefits:
- EBT Card: Use your Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card to view your balance at authorized retailers.
- EBT Account: Log in to your EBT account online or through the CalFresh mobile app.
- Customer Service: Call the number on the back of your EBT card to check your balance and payment status.
Benefits of the CalFresh Payment Increase
The 2025 COLA increase helps families facing higher food costs by adding a small but meaningful amount to their monthly benefits. Key benefits include:
- Additional Annual Food Budget: A single recipient will gain an additional $12 per year, while larger households, like those with eight members, receive an extra $60 per year.
- Enhanced Food Security: The increase helps low-income households stretch their food budget and access nutritious options even with rising grocery prices.
For CalFresh recipients in California, it’s important to stay informed about the November 2024 payment schedule and benefit increases due to the 2025 COLA adjustment.
Knowing your case number and payment date will help you plan your grocery budget. Meeting all eligibility and work requirements is also essential to ensure uninterrupted benefits.
For any questions regarding eligibility, payment status, or the updated amounts, reach out to your local CalFresh office or check the official CalFresh website.
