If you are a CalFresh recipient in California, staying on top of your recertification dates is essential to ensure uninterrupted benefits. Missing deadlines could lead to a pause or loss of your food assistance, so it’s important to know when and how to renew your eligibility.
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CalFresh
CalFresh is California’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which provides food assistance to low-income individuals and families. The program distributes benefits each month via an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card, similar to a debit card, which can be used at grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
The amount a recipient receives depends on income, household size, and expenses. Since CalFresh is designed to help those in need, it is important to comply with recertification requirements to continue receiving benefits.
Recertification
Most California households must renew their benefits every 12 months, but some may qualify for longer certification periods of 24 or 36 months based on their income and household composition.
Here’s a general breakdown:
| Household Type | Certification Period |
|---|---|
| General households | 12 months |
| Low-income households with elderly/disabled members | 24 months |
| Households with only elderly/disabled members and no earned income | 36 months |
To continue receiving benefits, recipients must submit a recertification application and complete an interview before their certification period ends. Many counties allow online recertification at BenefitsCal.org, so check if your county offers this option.
Deadline
CalFresh recipients should note that the recertification deadline is the fifth day of the last month of their certification period.
For example, if your benefits expire on April 10, 2025, you must submit recertification documents by March 10, 2025, to avoid any disruption in assistance.
Missing the deadline could result in a temporary loss of benefits, so be sure to plan ahead and complete the process on time.
FAQs
What is CalFresh?
CalFresh is California’s food assistance program for low-income households.
How often do I need to recertify?
Most households recertify every 12 months, some every 24 or 36 months.
What happens if I miss the recertification deadline?
Your benefits may be delayed or stopped until you complete recertification.
Can I recertify for CalFresh online?
Yes, in many counties at BenefitsCal.org. Check for availability in yours.
When is my recertification deadline?
It is the 5th day of the last month of your certification period.
