CalFresh
The CalFresh program helps families and people who have little or no income buy groceries. CalFresh benefits are not cash. CalFresh benefits come loaded on an electronic benefit transfer (EBT) card that can be used like a bank debit card to buy food at most grocery stores, farmers markets, some online grocery sites, and other places that sell food.
Households that meet the criteria below for expedited service may be entitled to receive benefits within three days. Expedited services requires that you::
- Have no more than $100 in liquid resources and less than $150 gross income for the month of application
- Be a destitute seasonal or migrant farm worker household and have no more than $100 liquid resources
- Have monthly shelter and utility costs that exceed the household’s combined liquid resources and gross income for the month of application
You can sign up forCalFresh online at BenefitsCal.com. Our staff is also available to serve you online, by phone, email, fax, drop-off/mail-in services, and in person. Learn more about the many ways to apply.
CalFresh News & Information
2026 Work Requirement Changes
New federal laws are changing CalFresh work requirements this year. Visit CalFresh for information in English and Spanish on this and other pending changes and dates.
2026 Changes to Immigrant Eligibility
Due to the federal budget bill (HR1), certain qualified noncitizens are no longer eligible to receive CalFresh food benefits as of April 1, 2026. The Noncitizen Eligibility Flyer and Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) outline the changes. Additionally you can visit HSA’s Budget Impact page for an overview of key benefit changes over the next two years.
These documents provide information such as, but not limited to:
- Who is still eligible for CalFresh
- Who is losing eligibility for CalFresh
- Where you can find resources
Double Your Dollars at Participating Farmers Markets
If you are enrolled in CalFresh, you can double your CalFresh dollars at a certified farmers market through the Market Match Program. To find local farmers market participating in Market Match, go to FMFinder.org. Learn more about Ventura County farmers markets at VCCFM.org.
Resources to Help Understand the Public Charge Rule
Currently, most benefits do not count against your immigration qualifications. The Public Charge Rule helps you understand the specific benefits that may factor into the immigration process.
Resources to Help Understand the Public Charge Rule
Please note: The federal government has considered tightening this rule in the future, which could negatively impact some immigrants using benefits. Watch this page for information if changes take shape.
Participating Restaurants Offer CalFresh Meals
The Restaurant Meals Program (RMP) allows CalFresh clients who are 60 years or older, people with disabilities, and individuals who are homeless to use their EBT cards to purchase meals from participating restaurants. Ventura County is now recruiting local restaurants for the RMP.
CalFresh Employment & Training
This voluntary program gives you access to a wide range of employment resources such as: job search, training, support and more. Contact your caseworker to sign up or call 1-888-472-4463.
Skip the Line with BenefitsCal
Medi-Cal, CalFresh, CalWORKs and General Relief clients can check status or renew their benefits online, report changes and upload documents at BenefitsCal.com.
Keep Your EBT Card Secure
- No legitimate organization should ever contact you to ask for your card number or PIN.
- Change your PIN often.
- Use only the free, official ebtEDGE mobile and web-based app. Beware of copycat apps with a fee.
If your benefits may have been stolen:
- Call the customer service telephone number on the back of your EBT card: 877-328-9677.
- Contact your eligibility worker.
- Call HSA Customer Service at 888-472-4463.
HSA does not discriminate based on disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its programs or activities. If you have a disability and feel you have been discriminated against, please contact: Francisco Mora, Civil Rights Coordinator 855 Partridge Drive, Ventura, CA 93003. 805-477-5166, TTY 800-735-2922 or 711.