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Human Services Department

Economic Assistance Division

CalFresh / EBT food benefits

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CalFresh

Assistance for Individuals and Families to buy healthy food

CalFresh also known federally as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) provides monthly assistance for low- or no-income individuals and families to buy food.

CalFresh is issued monthly on an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, similar to an ATM card, to purchase food at online retailers, grocery stores, convenience stores, farmers markets and any store that accepts EBT.

Attention CalFresh Recipients!

If you have been impacted by the recent winter storms and have experienced a loss of food purchased with CalFresh benefits due to flooding, power outages or damage to your home, you may apply for partial or total replacement of the value of food lost or spoiled. Go to Using your CalFresh benefits and scroll down to "Replace CalFresh Benefits, Disaster or single household misfortune" for more information and instructions on how to submit the request.

To learn more:

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Apply for CalFresh

Apply for CalFresh EBT online, by phone, fax, mail or in-person.

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Preparing for your interview

After you apply, you must complete an interview. See what information or documents you may need to provide during and after your interview.

Man buying food at farmers market with an EBT card

Using your CalFresh EBT Benefits

Purchase food at online retailers, grocery stores, convenience stores, farmers markets and any store that accepts EBT.

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Keeping your Benefits

Keep & maintain your CalFresh benefits in 3 easy steps!

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Frequently asked questions

Find answers to common questions about your CalFresh benefits.

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Get food now from food pantries

Many local agencies offer help finding food and hot meals now.