Frequently Asked Questions 

Does it cost anything to apply for CalFresh?

No, applying for CalFresh is free!

How long will it take to know if I’ve been approved?

After your application is submitted, your caseworker will determine if you qualify for expedited services. Then your application status will be determined between 3-30 days.

What if I am homeless?

If you are homeless, you are still potentially eligible for CalFresh and may even be able to qualify for expedited services.

How much in CalFresh benefits will I receive?

Your CalFresh benefit amount is dependent on many things such as your household size, income, and expenses (rent, utilities, etc.). Please refer to the Income Chart, which includes potential allotment amounts based on household size.

Do I have to pay back CalFresh benefits?

You will not have to pay back any benefits you were eligible to receive. If there was an error and you were over-benefitted, you will need to repay the amount you received that you were not eligible for.

I lost my EBT card. How do I get another one?

Call 1-877-328-9677 to report your EBT card lost or stolen.

How do I use my CalFresh benefits?

CalFresh benefits are issued on an EBT card that works like a debit card. You can use it at most grocery stores and farmer’s markets.

What kind of foods can I purchase with my CalFresh benefits? 

CalFresh Benefits

Households  CAN  use CalFresh benefits to buy:	Households  CANNOT  use CalFresh benefits to buy:
Foods for the household to eat, such as: Breads and cereals Fruit and vegetables Meat, fish and poultry Dairy products Seeds and plants which produce food for the household to eat	Any nonfood items, such as: Beer, wine, liquor, cigarettes or tobacco Pet foods Soaps, paper products, and household supplies Vitamins and medicines Food that will be eaten in store Hot foods

I'm unsure if I am eligible for CalFresh or I have other questions about CalFresh. 

Students who have other CalFresh questions or would like to receive a pre-screen can speak with a Basic Needs Staff member. Students can  email  calfresh@rpybbk.com  or submit an  online request form  for further support. Additionally, students can stop by our CalFresh Drop-In hours. For the Fall 2024 semester, CalFresh Drop-In hours are held on Mondays and Thursdays from 2-4pm in MH 143 or virtually on Zoom (meeting ID 878 8086 1095). Drop-In hours will not be held during campus closures.

What is the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) through CalFresh? 

The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) is program that is a part of CalFresh Food benefits and gives potentially eligible individuals who are at a high risk of chronic hunger the option to use their CalFresh benefits to purchase prepared meals at approved restaurant vendors. Eligibilty requirements for RMP are: 

• an adult aged 60 or older,
• a person with a disability,
• the spouse of an individual who belongs to one of the above categories, or
• a person experiencing homelessness
  
  

Students who apply (and meet the  CalFresh eligibility criteria) for CalFresh benefits and also meet the RMP eligibility requirements will be notified by their county social services caseworker if they are eligible for RMP.