Across the United States, social programs are in place to support low-income households with basic necessities like food, healthcare, and even direct stimulus payments.
One of California’s most important aid programs is CalFresh, which is essentially the state’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).
And if you’re a California resident relying on this benefit, another round of payments is heading your way this April.
Support
CalFresh exists to help low-income families access nutritious food, making sure that no one goes hungry due to financial hardship. It operates through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card that works just like a debit card.
Recipients can use this card to purchase food at grocery stores, approved markets, and farmers’ markets that accept EBT.
This program is California’s largest food aid initiative and is supervised by the state but operated at the county level. It’s a safety net that plays a critical role in reducing food insecurity for thousands of households.
Eligibility
To qualify for CalFresh (or SNAP), your gross monthly income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty level, while your net income—after deductions like rent or medical expenses—is required to be at or below 100% of the federal poverty level.
For reference, in 2025, the federal poverty level for a single-person household is $15,650 annually.
This means that if you’re a single adult earning below about $1,304 per month gross, you’re likely eligible. For larger households, the income thresholds are higher to account for more mouths to feed.
Schedule
Unlike Social Security payments, which are based on your birthdate, CalFresh benefits follow a fixed schedule tied to the last digit of your case number. This consistency helps recipients plan their monthly grocery shopping in advance.
Here’s how the April 2025 CalFresh payment schedule looks:
| Case Number Ends In | Payment Date (April) |
|---|---|
| 1 | April 1 |
| 2 | April 2 |
| 3 | April 3 |
| 4 | April 4 |
| 5 | April 5 |
| 6 | April 6 |
| 7 | April 7 |
| 8 | April 8 |
| 9 | April 9 |
| 0 | April 10 |
These dates reflect when funds will be added to your EBT card, so you can make purchases immediately after your benefit is loaded.
Concerns
There’s growing concern that CalFresh and other SNAP-related programs could face budget cuts under the incoming Trump administration. A new budget proposal suggests a 20% cut to SNAP funding nationwide. That would hit CalFresh recipients hard, reducing the amount of monthly food assistance many families rely on.
The proposal also includes a suggested $880 million reduction to Medicare. These potential changes haven’t been finalized yet, as the budget still needs to pass through Congress. But if approved, the cuts could leave families scrambling to cover the cost of basic food needs.
Planning
Right now, it’s business as usual. Benefits are still being paid out on schedule, and eligibility requirements haven’t changed. But it’s a good idea to stay informed. If you’re receiving CalFresh, make sure your contact information is updated with your local county office so you get alerts about any policy changes.
Also, keep checking the California Department of Social Services website or contact your caseworker for the most current updates regarding your benefits.
FAQs
When will I get my CalFresh in April?
Payments are made between April 1–10, based on case number.
How do I check my CalFresh balance?
Use your EBT card online or call the number on the back.
Can CalFresh benefits be cut?
Yes, a 20% cut is proposed but not yet approved.
What income qualifies for CalFresh?
Gross income must be under 130% of the poverty level.
Is CalFresh the same as SNAP?
Yes, it’s California’s version of the federal SNAP program.
