As the cost of living continues to rise, California’s food assistance programs are stepping up to support millions of low-income families.
CalFresh, Summer EBT (SUN Bucks), and the Double Up Food Bucks program are three powerful tools designed to put fresh, nutritious food on your table and reduce food insecurity across the state.
What is CalFresh?
CalFresh is California’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps over 4.8 million residents afford groceries each month.
Eligible households receive funds via the Golden State Advantage EBT card, which functions like a debit card and can be used at approved grocery stores.
Eligibility and Income Limits (Valid Until September 2025)
To qualify for CalFresh, your gross monthly income must fall below 200% of the federal poverty line. Here’s a breakdown by household size:
| Household Size | Gross Income Limit (Monthly) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,510 |
| 2 | $3,408 |
| 3 | $4,306 |
| 4 | $5,204 |
| 5 | $6,102 |
| 6 | $7,000 |
| 7 | $7,898 |
| 8 | $8,788 |
| Each Additional | +$898 |
Special rules apply to seniors and people with disabilities, who may have higher allowable income and additional deductions.
Allowable Deductions for CalFresh Applicants
When applying for CalFresh, you can reduce your countable income by applying the following deductions:
- 20% of earned income
- Standard deduction (e.g., $291 for larger households)
- Medical expenses for elderly/disabled
- Child/dependent care costs
- Housing and utility expenses, including shelter limits (up to $712 or more)
Also, recipients of Medi-Cal, SSI, or CalWORKs may be eligible for automatic enrollment in many cases.
CalFresh August 2025 Payment Schedule
Payments are deposited during the first ten days of the month, based on the last digit of your case number:
| Last Digit of Case Number | Deposit Date (August 2025) |
|---|---|
| 1 | August 1 |
| 2 | August 2 |
| 3 | August 3 |
| 4 | August 4 |
| 5 | August 5 |
| 6 | August 6 |
| 7 | August 7 |
| 8 | August 8 |
| 9 | August 9 |
| 0 | August 10 |
What is Summer EBT (SUN Bucks)?
SUN Bucks is a summer nutrition assistance program aimed at helping families during the school break, when free/reduced-price school meals aren’t available. Here’s how it works:
- $120 total per child ($40 for June, July, and August)
- Automatically enrolled if children receive CalFresh, Medi-Cal, or CalWORKs
- Cards mailed by last name:
- A-D in June
- E-L in July
- M-Z in August
Important: Funds expire 122 days after issuance, so timely use is essential.
Double Up Food Bucks Program
For families seeking more fresh produce, Double Up Food Bucks California is a great complementary program. It matches every $1 spent on fruits and vegetables using CalFresh benefits—doubling your buying power.
Available in:
- Mendocino County
- Alameda County
- Santa Clara County
- Monterey County
- Parts of Southern California
You can locate participating markets through the doubleupca.org website.
With CalFresh, SUN Bucks, and the Double Up Food Bucks program, California families have access to multiple food assistance options that ensure healthy meals stay within reach—especially during the challenging summer months.
From EBT disbursements to matched produce purchases, these initiatives help millions of residents stretch their grocery dollars further and nourish their families with dignity.
If you haven’t already, check your eligibility and explore these programs today.
FAQs
Can I receive CalFresh if I already get Medi-Cal or SSI?
Yes, many recipients of Medi-Cal, CalWORKs, or SSI are eligible for CalFresh. Check with your local office for specific cases.
When will I receive SUN Bucks for my child?
SUN Bucks are issued based on the child’s last name in June, July, or August, and expire in 122 days.
How can I double my CalFresh food dollars?
Use your EBT card at Double Up Food Bucks markets to get an additional $1 for every $1 spent on fresh produce.