CalFresh, California’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), is a lifeline for low-income families, providing funds for nutritious food.
In December 2024, eligible Californians can receive payments ranging from $292 to $1,756, depending on household size. Payments are distributed from December 1 to December 10, based on the recipient’s case number.
Here’s everything you need to know about payment dates, eligibility, and benefit amounts.
December 2024 CalFresh Payment Schedule
CalFresh payment distribution is based on the last digit of the recipient’s case number.
Last Digit of Case Number | Payment Date |
---|---|
1 | December 1, 2024 |
2 | December 2, 2024 |
3 | December 3, 2024 |
4 | December 4, 2024 |
5 | December 5, 2024 |
6 | December 6, 2024 |
7 | December 7, 2024 |
8 | December 8, 2024 |
9 | December 9, 2024 |
0 | December 10, 2024 |
If you’re unsure of your case number, check your eligibility or payment details through the MyBenefits CalWIN or California EBT websites.
CalFresh Benefit Amount
CalFresh benefits vary based on household size and income levels. Below is the maximum monthly benefit amount for December 2024:
Household Size | Maximum Benefit |
---|---|
1 | $292 |
2 | $536 |
3 | $768 |
4 | $975 |
5 | $1,158 |
6 | $1,390 |
7 | $1,615 |
8 | $1,756 |
Each Additional Member | $220 |
Additional Notes
- Benefits are deposited directly onto Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards.
- SNAP benefits can be used to purchase eligible food items but not non-food products like alcohol, tobacco, or household supplies.
Eligibility for CalFresh Payments
To qualify for CalFresh, applicants must meet certain income and residency requirements.
General Eligibility Criteria
- Residency: Must live in California.
- Income Limits: Monthly income must fall within federal poverty guidelines.
- Example: For a household of 4, the gross monthly income limit is $4,626 (before deductions).
- Citizenship: U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or certain non-citizen groups qualify.
- Resource Limits: Households may have limited countable resources, such as savings or other assets.
Additional Considerations
- Recipients of Social Security (SSI/SSDI) or TANF can also qualify for CalFresh.
- Students, senior citizens, and disabled individuals may have specific guidelines for eligibility.
How to Apply for CalFresh
Eligible individuals can apply for CalFresh benefits online or in person.
Application Process
- Online:
- Visit MyBenefits CalWIN or BenefitsCal.
- In Person:
- Go to your local California Department of Social Services (CDSS) office.
- Phone:
- Call the CalFresh Information Line at 1-877-847-3663.
Required Documents
- Proof of identity (ID card, driver’s license).
- Proof of income (pay stubs, Social Security award letters).
- Proof of residency (utility bills, lease agreements).
- Social Security Numbers for household members.
Using CalFresh with Other Benefits
CalFresh is compatible with several other assistance programs, including:
- Social Security Benefits (SSI/SSDI).
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
- Medicaid/Medi-Cal.
This flexibility ensures recipients can supplement their household income while covering essential expenses.
Other States Offering SNAP Benefits in December
California isn’t the only state distributing SNAP benefits during this period. Residents in South Carolina, Oklahoma, Colorado, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, and Nevada also receive payments from December 1 to December 10.
Take Action Today
CalFresh provides critical food assistance to millions of Californians. Whether you’re a current recipient or considering applying, understanding your payment schedule and benefits ensures you maximize this vital resource.
Stay updated through California EBT or CDSS to avoid missing your next payment.