Food Stamps (SNAP) in California (2026)
California's SNAP program is called CalFresh and is administered by the Department of Social Services (CDSS) through county social services agencies. California has fully opted out of the federal drug felony ban, making all eligible residents with drug convictions eligible for food assistance.
Last updated:
Quick Answer
You can apply for CalFresh (SNAP) in California online at BenefitsCal.com, by phone, or in person at your county social services office. A single person can earn up to $2,510/month gross income. California has no drug felony ban — people with drug convictions are fully eligible for CalFresh benefits.
California SNAP Agency
California Department of Social Services (CDSS) — CalFresh
Website: cdss.ca.gov/calfresh
Phone: 1-877-847-3663
Apply online: benefitscal.com
Eligibility & Income Limits
Income limit (1 person): $2,510/month gross
Income limit (4 person): $5,178/month gross
California uses broad-based categorical eligibility (BBCE) with income limits at 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. The asset test has been eliminated for most households.
Asset limit: No asset test(broad-based categorical eligibility -- asset test effectively eliminated)
Benefit Amounts
Max benefit (1 person): $292/month
Max benefit (4 person): $994/month
Average benefit: $219/person/month
Drug Felony Ban Status
No Ban
California has fully opted out of the federal drug felony ban. People with drug-related felony convictions are eligible for CalFresh benefits with no additional requirements related to their conviction.
ABAWD Policy (Work Requirements)
Work requirements enforced: No
California has obtained statewide waivers from ABAWD time limits in most counties. Able-bodied adults without dependents are generally not subject to the 3-month time limit, though this may vary by county.
How to Apply
Online: Yes
Phone: Yes
In person: Yes
Processing time: 30 days (3 days for expedited cases)
More Food & Benefits Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I apply for CalFresh (SNAP) in California?
- You can apply online at BenefitsCal.com, call your county social services office, or visit in person. The application takes about 20 minutes online. You will need proof of identity, income, and residency. An interview is required.
- Can I get CalFresh with a felony conviction in California?
- Yes. California has fully opted out of the federal drug felony ban. All eligible individuals, regardless of criminal history including drug felonies, can receive CalFresh benefits if they meet income and other eligibility requirements.
- What is the income limit for CalFresh in California?
- California uses expanded income limits at 200% FPL. For a single person, the gross income limit is $2,510/month. For a family of four, it is $5,178/month. There is no asset test for most households.
- How much will I receive in CalFresh benefits?
- The maximum CalFresh benefit for a single person is $292/month and $994/month for a family of four. Your actual benefit depends on household size, income, and deductions. The average benefit is about $219 per person per month.
- Can I get CalFresh if I am an immigrant?
- Many immigrants are eligible for CalFresh, including lawful permanent residents who have been in the U.S. for 5+ years, refugees, asylees, and certain other categories. Undocumented individuals are not eligible, but their citizen children may qualify. California also offers the California Food Assistance Program (CFAP) for legal immigrants who do not meet federal SNAP requirements.
- What is the difference between CalFresh and food stamps?
- CalFresh is California's name for the federal SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), formerly known as food stamps. It is the same federal program, administered by California counties.
Take Action -- Direct Links
- Apply Online — BenefitsCal
California's online portal for applying for CalFresh, Medi-Cal, and other assistance programs.
- CDSS — CalFresh Information
Official state page with CalFresh eligibility, benefits, and program information.
- Find Your County Office
Directory of county social services offices where you can apply in person.
- California Association of Food Banks
Find food banks and pantries throughout California for immediate food assistance.
Related Resources on This Site
More for your state
- HousingSecond chance apartments in Los Angeles, CA
- ExpungementCalifornia expungement guide
- Voting RightsFelon voting rights in California
- Gun RightsFelon gun rights in California
- DUI RecoveryDUI license recovery in California
- ProbationProbation & parole in California
- SR22 InsuranceSR22 insurance in California
- License ReinstatementLicense reinstatement in California
Helpful guides
- Criminal LawIs it a felony? Common crimes classified
- RightsCan a felon hunt? Bow, crossbow & muzzleloader
- RecoveryNA meetings — how to find one
- Banking & CreditBanks that don't use ChexSystems