Starting October 1, 2024, CalFresh recipients in California will see a modest increase in their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA).
While the increase may seem small, it is a welcome change for many families relying on these benefits. This article will cover the latest details, payment schedules, and maximum benefit amounts you can expect for the upcoming year.
What is CalFresh and SNAP?
CalFresh is California’s implementation of the federal SNAP program, which provides monthly financial assistance to low-income individuals and families to purchase food.
The program aims to reduce hunger and improve the nutrition and health of eligible residents.
2025 COLA Increase: What’s New?
The 2025 COLA adjustments will bring slight increases in maximum monthly allotments for CalFresh recipients. For instance, the maximum benefit for a single individual will increase by $1, from $291 to $292. While the increase may seem minimal, it reflects efforts to adjust benefits in line with the rising cost of living.
For a family of four, the maximum benefit will rise from $973 to $975, a $2 monthly increase. Larger families will also see slight increments, with a family of eight receiving up to $1,756, up from $1,751.
Payment Schedule for October 2024
CalFresh benefits are distributed based on the last digit of your case number, from the 1st to the 10th of each month. Here’s the detailed payment schedule for October 2024:
| Case Number Ending In | Payment Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | October 1st |
| 2 | October 2nd |
| 3 | October 3rd |
| 4 | October 4th |
| 5 | October 5th |
| 6 | October 6th |
| 7 | October 7th |
| 8 | October 8th |
| 9 | October 9th |
| 0 | October 10th |
This staggered distribution helps manage the flow of benefits and ensures that recipients do not all access their funds on the same day.
Maximum Monthly Allotments for 2025
The maximum allotments for CalFresh recipients in California are determined by household size. Below is a table detailing the new maximum benefits for different household sizes in 2025:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $292 |
| 2 | $536 |
| 3 | $768 |
| 4 | $975 |
| 5 | $1,158 |
| 6 | $1,390 |
| 7 | $1,536 |
| 8 | $1,756 |
For households with more than eight members, an additional $220 will be added for each extra member.
How to Check Your CalFresh Benefits
You can check your CalFresh benefits using your EBT card. Simply log in to your EBT account or call the customer service number on the back of your card.
You can also access your account information through the CalFresh website or mobile app.
Impact of the COLA Increase
While the COLA increase for 2025 may not seem substantial, it reflects the government’s ongoing efforts to adjust SNAP benefits to meet the rising cost of living.
These benefits play a crucial role in supporting the food security and nutrition of low-income families across California.
Conclusion
The 2025 COLA increase for CalFresh may be modest, but it is a step towards supporting low-income families in California.
The new payment amounts and schedules aim to make a difference, however small, in the lives of those who need it the most.
If you have questions about your benefits or eligibility, be sure to contact your local CalFresh office or visit their official website.
FAQs
1. What is the 2025 COLA increase for CalFresh?
The 2025 COLA increase for CalFresh includes a $1 increase for individuals and up to $5 for families of eight, starting October 1, 2024.
2. When will the increased benefits be available?
The increased benefits will be available starting October 1, 2024, and will be distributed based on the recipient’s case number from the 1st to the 10th of each month.
3. How much will a family of four receive in 2025?
A family of four can receive a maximum of $975 per month, up from $973 in the previous year.
4. Will the COLA increase affect all states?
Yes, the COLA increase will apply to all states, but the maximum benefit amounts vary by state and household size.
5. How can I check my CalFresh benefits?
You can check your CalFresh benefits using your EBT card by logging into your EBT account, calling the customer service number, or using the CalFresh website or mobile app.
References
- USDA Food and Nutrition Service – SNAP FY 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustments
- East County Magazine – CalFresh Benefit Increase Coming in October
- Vibes Okdiario – CalFresh: SNAP Payments in California with the 2025 COLA Increase
