CalFresh January Payment: As January unfolds, California’s CalFresh program beneficiaries are set to receive their food stamp benefits. As a modern version of the traditional Food Stamp program, CalFresh provides monthly funds for the purchase of essential food items to low-income households.
To ensure that families maintain adequate nutritional levels, CalFresh allows beneficiaries to use the benefits for the purchase of any food or food product that is intended for human consumption.
It is important to note, however, that these benefits may not be used to purchase alcoholic beverages, cigarettes, or paper products.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is the primary source of funding for the program, covering the costs of benefits and 50% of operational costs. California and some local governments also contribute to the program.
CalFresh and EDD: Does California offer food stamps and unemployment benefits?
Who will receive the CalFresh payment in the second week of January 2024?
Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards are used to distribute CalFresh benefits.
Typically, these benefits are disbursed within the first 10 days of each month. Each beneficiary’s case number indicates the specific date of payment.
The payment schedule for January 2024 is as follows:
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Case numbers ending in 8 will receive payments on Monday, January 8.
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The case numbers ending in 9 will receive payment on Tuesday, January 9.
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Case numbers ending in 0 will receive payments on Wednesday, January 10.
What is CalFresh’s monthly payment?
From October 1, 2023, the size of the household will determine the maximum monthly allowance for CalFresh recipients. A one-person household will receive up to $291, while a two-person household will receive up to $535.
For a family of eight, the maximum allowance rises to $1,751, and for each additional family member beyond eight, an additional $219 is added.
Beneficiaries need to be aware of the payment schedule and the amount of benefits available to manage their monthly food budgets effectively.
Despite some restrictions on what can be purchased, the program offers significant assistance to thousands of households in the state in obtaining nutritious food.
