What is the income limit for CalFresh in California 2025? If you have trouble paying for groceries, the CalFresh program may be able to help. It assists eligible low-income people and families in purchasing nutritious foods.
This article will examine the income limits, eligibility requirements, and CalFresh application for benefits. Understanding these criteria will help you know whether you qualify and how to obtain financial assistance for food.
What Is CalFresh Program in California? How Does It Work?
CalFresh is California’s implementation of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), formerly known as Food Stamps. This program enables eligible individuals to stretch their budgets further.
The reason is that the money they would have spent on food may now be used to cover other necessary needs, such as energy payments, medicines, and medical expenses.
You will receive CalFresh benefits via an electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card if deemed eligible.
This card functions similarly to a prepaid debit card and may be used to purchase bread, rice, nuts, and other things at most grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
The CalFresh program is administered locally by county human services agencies. Thus, each county office may have different requirements and approaches to managing its program.
>>> Read more: California Food Assistance Program (CFAP): Benefits & Expansion
What Is the Income Limit for CalFresh in California 2025?
Firstly, it is worth noting that your benefit amount is determined based on your household size and gross monthly income minus monthly costs like:
- Child support payments
- Childcare expenses
- Medical expenses in case your household includes at least one member aged 60 or older or has a disability
- Rent or mortgage
- Utility and phone expenses
Investments, bank accounts, and property ownership are all resources excluded from the application criteria. However, the income from these resources will still be included in your household’s total gross income.
So, what is the income limit for CalFresh in California 2025? To qualify, the income of a household must be less than the amount shown in the table below:
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit |
| 1 | $2,510 |
| 2 | $3,408 |
| 3 | $4,304 |
| 4 | $5,200 |
| 5 | $6,098 |
| 6 | $6,994 |
| 7 | $7,890 |
What Is the Highest Income to Qualify for CalFresh?
The highest allowable benefit is increased annually to reflect the rising cost of living (COLA). The table below displays the most recent adjustments from 10/01/2024 to 09/30/2025.
However, your household’s income and expenses determine your benefit amount. This implies that your benefit amount may be lower than that listed below.
| Household Size | Highest Benefit Amount (per month) |
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
How to Apply for the CalFresh Program?
CalFresh enables working-class households to make food purchases more easily. This program allows eligible individuals to buy nutritious food to satisfy their household’s requirements.
This part will cover the eligibility criteria for the program and walk you through the CalFresh application process so you can get food stamps California benefits.
Eligible Criteria
Generally, you must meet the following requirements to be eligible for the CalFresh program:
- You must be a U.S. citizen or a legally admitted non-citizen. If some household members are ineligible, those who qualify may still receive benefits.
- You must reside in the California county where you apply.
- A Social Security number (or proof of application for one) is required.
- Your household must consist of individuals who live together, purchase food, and prepare meals together.
- You must meet income and asset limits set by the program.
- Most individuals aged 18 to 50 must comply with specific work requirements to receive benefits.
CalfFresh application process
While you may think applying for CalFresh is complicated or time-consuming, it is not as challenging as expected.
Ways to apply
There are 4 simple ways to apply for the CalFresh program in California:
- Apply online: If qualified for CalFresh, you can apply at www.getcalfresh.org or www.benefitscal.com.
- Apply in person: You must go to your county office and get a printed application. Use your county and ZIP code on the BenefitsCal website or a locator map to find your nearest local office.
- Apply by phone: For assistance with your application, call the CalFresh Benefits Helpline at 1-877-847-3663.
- Apply by mail: Download a CalFresh application form, print it, fill it out, and send it to your local county office.
Steps to apply online
If you know “What is the income limit for CalFresh in California?” and think that you are eligible, follow these steps to apply for the program:
- Step 1 – Create an account: Go to GetCalFresh.org and click ‘Apply Now.’ Creating an account allows you to save progress and return later.
- Step 2 – Submit required documents: Provide proof of your situation, such as ID, pay stubs, or rent receipts, during your application or within 30 days.
- Step 3 – Complete the interview: A county worker may contact you for additional information or clarification.
- Step 4 – Receive benefits: If approved, you will get an EBT card loaded with grocery funds within 30 days.
>>> Also read: EBT Benefits California: How to Get Support with Food Stamps
How Can You Maximize CalFresh Benefits?
You may not know that as a CalFresh recipient, you are immediately eligible for the Lifeline Assistance program.
It offers low-income people free or reduced-cost communication services. Combining CalFresh and Lifeline provides not just nutritious food but also necessary connectivity.
What’s more, when you apply for the Lifeline program through a reputable provider like AirTalk Wireless, you may also be eligible for free devices such as phones, smartwatches, tablets, and even laptops.
These devices will assist you in staying connected with family, finding job opportunities, and managing everyday activities.
The application process is simple:
- Check availability – Visit the AirTalk Wireless website and enter your ZIP code.
- Choose a plan – Choose a phone plan and a free or discounted device.
- Submit documents – Upload the required documents, including proof of CalFresh enrollment if applicable.
- Wait for approval – After submitting, you must wait about 7-10 business days before receiving your device and service plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to use my CalFresh benefits?
CalFresh benefits may be used at any EBT-accepting store, including Target, Costco, Walgreens, etc. You may also use it at Farmer’s Markets.
What is the poverty line in California for a single person?
Known as the federal poverty level (FPL), the federal poverty guidelines assess a household’s poverty status using yearly income. Below is the guideline for the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia in 2025, including California:
- 1 person: $15,650
- 2 persons: $21,150
- 3 persons: $26,650
- 4 persons: $32,150
- 5 persons: $37,650
- 6 persons: $43,150
- 7 persons: $48,650
- 8 persons: $54,150
For families/households with more than 8 people, add $5,500 for each extra member.
If I make $1,800 a month can I get Food Stamps?
It depends on your household size and expenses. If you are a single person with no dependents, your net income must be below $1,632 monthly to qualify for SNAP. However, you may still be eligible if you have dependents or deductible expenses that lower your net income.
Final Words
CalFresh is a program that helps low-income individuals and families in California afford nutritious food. By understanding “What is the income limit for CalFresh in California” and eligibility requirements, you can determine if you qualify and take the necessary steps to apply. Best of all, don’t forget to maximize your benefits by applying for the Lifeline Program through AirTalk Wireless to get a free phone and discounted service!
