CalFresh Payments in September – Eligibility for Receiving Food Stamps in California This Week

As a new month begins, many California residents are eagerly awaiting their CalFresh payments. Addressing when and how these benefits are distributed helps recipients manage their grocery purchases efficiently. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the September 2024 CalFresh payment schedule, how to access these benefits, and how to apply if you’re new to the program.

Payment

CalFresh, California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), provides monthly benefits to eligible low-income individuals and families. These payments are distributed via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card at grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets that accept CalFresh.

Each CalFresh recipient has a unique case number, which determines when their benefits will be loaded onto their EBT card. The payment dates for September 2024 are based on the last digit of the case number:

If your case number ends in ‘1,’ your benefits are available on the 1st of the month, and so on. Most September payments have already been made, but those with case numbers ending in 9 or 0 will receive their benefits on September 9 and 10.

Maximum Payments

The amount of CalFresh benefits a household receives depends on its size and income. For September 2024, the maximum monthly CalFresh payment amounts are as follows:

These maximum amounts help ensure that even larger families receive enough support to purchase nutritious food each month. Keep in mind that the actual amount each household receives may vary based on income and other factors.

Applying

New to CalFresh? The application process is straightforward and can be completed online or over the phone. Here’s how you can apply:

1. Online Application: Visit the Get CalFresh website, where you can fill out the application form. After submission, your county will contact you within a few weeks to schedule an eligibility interview.
2. Phone Application: You can also apply by calling the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) at (866) 613-3777. Be prepared with necessary documents like proof of identity, income, and immigration status.

Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an EBT card within 10 days. This card will be your gateway to accessing your CalFresh benefits.

Tracking Payments

To check the status of your CalFresh payments, you have several options:

• BenefitsCal Application: You can log into the BenefitsCal platform to view your upcoming payment dates and the amounts.
• CalFresh Hotline: Call 1-877-847-3663 to inquire about your benefits.
• Local CDSS Office: Visit your nearest CDSS office for assistance with your CalFresh benefits.

These resources make it easy to keep track of your payments, so you always know when your benefits will be available.

How Benefits Work

Once your benefits are loaded onto your EBT card, you can use the card to purchase eligible food items at participating retailers. These items include:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Meat and poultry
• Dairy products
• Bread and grains

Like other SNAP programs, CalFresh benefits cannot be used for non-food items, such as alcohol, tobacco, or household supplies. The aim of the program is to help low-income individuals and families access nutritious food, improving overall health and well-being.

By planning grocery shopping around the payment schedule, recipients can make the most of their monthly benefits.

CalFresh benefits are an essential resource for millions of Californians. By addressing when payments will be available and how to access them, recipients can better manage their food budgets and maintain a healthy diet.

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