CalFresh benefits rise as stricter eligibility rules take effect

THOUSAND PALMS, Calif. (KESQ)- California families who rely on CalFresh are seeing several changes to the food assistance program this fall, including a small increase in maximum monthly benefits beginning Oct. 1.

CalFresh is California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.

Starting Oct. 1, the maximum monthly benefit increases to $306 for a one-person household and $1,023 for a family of four. The actual amount a household receives depends on income, household size and allowable deductions.

At the same time, other federal changes are already affecting who qualifies for assistance.

In Riverside County, expanded work requirements began June 1 for many adults ages 18 to 64. People who are required to meet the rules generally must work, volunteer, attend school or take part in job training to continue receiving benefits beyond three months, unless they qualify for an exemption.

A Riverside County-specific food benefit also restarted Oct. 1. California’s Fruit and Vegetable EBT Pilot allows eligible CalFresh users to earn additional benefits when they buy qualifying fruits and vegetables at participating stores and farmers markets.

The Center on Budget and Policy Priorities estimates SNAP participation nationwide fell by more than 5 million people between July 2025 and June 2026, and attributes much of that decline to implementation of the 2025 federal reconciliation law.

Riverside County residents with questions about their CalFresh eligibility or work requirements can contact the Department of Public Social Services or check their case through BenefitsCal.