Who is Eligible for CalFresh?
CalFresh helps millions of California individuals, families, couples, college students, Veterans, and immigrant families. You may be eligible for CalFresh if you are a California resident and meet some core requirements.
Citizenship
A household may be eligible for CalFresh if at least one member is:
- A U.S. citizen
- A lawful permanent resident (LPR) or is applying for LPR renewal
Tip: Other types of immigrant statuses are eligible. Reach out to a County Eligibility Worker to learn more.
A household may be eligible for CalFresh if at least one member is:
- A U.S. citizen
- A lawful permanent resident (LPR) or is applying for LPR renewal
Tip: Other types of immigrant statuses are eligible. Reach out to a County Eligibility Worker to learn more.
What if people in my household have a different citizen or immigration status?
If you’re eligible for CalFresh but another member of your household isn’t, you can still apply for benefits.
Will using CalFresh affect the immigration status of anyone in my household?
CalFresh does not affect immigration status or make you a public charge.
What if people in my household have a different citizen or immigration status?
If you’re eligible for CalFresh but another member of your household isn’t, you can still apply for benefits.
Will using CalFresh affect the immigration status of anyone in my household?
CalFresh does not affect immigration status or make you a public charge.
Income
Your income limits are based on your household size.
- Your “household” is the number of people you buy and share food with.
- Certain expenses, like childcare, can be deducted to adjust your income.
- If you need help calculating your income, reach out to a CalFresh expert at a CalFresh County Office.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,610 |
| 2 | $3,526 |
| 3 | $4,442 |
| 4 | $5,360 |
| 5 | $6,276 |
| 6 | $7,192 |
| 7 | $8,110 |
| 8 | $9,026 |
| Each Additional Member | +$918 |
CDSS Eligibility and Issuance Requirements
(Last updated September 2025)
Student Exemption
CalFresh is available for college students, too. If you’re a student, you may have an exemption that allows you to get CalFresh benefits to help pay for groceries.