Q: I want to apply for food stamps, but I heard the program is being cut. Is it worth applying?
A: Yes; if you are struggling to afford food and think you may qualify you should apply for benefits.
What we refer to as “food stamps” is now called the CalFresh program in California. It is a benefit program to help low-income households purchase food to meet their home’s nutritional needs. The benefit is issued through an Electronic Benefit Transfer, commonly known as an EBT card.
It acts like a credit card that can be used at grocery stores and participating Farmers Markets. This is different than when it used to be physical paper stamps. Not only does this allow the system to reload your benefit amount each month, but it takes away some of the stigma of people around you noticing that you are using food stamps.
Federally this program is called SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). This program is facing cuts in the coming years, as passed in recent legislation, but they have not taken effect yet. It is anticipated that reductions federally will start in 2026 with further reductions continuing through 2028.
Some of this means the cost of the SNAP program will be shifted to the state. There may be revisions in eligibility and benefit amounts, but the exact changes locally are yet to be defined. Therefore, new applications are still being accepted with no change to qualifications at this time.
If you or someone you know is struggling to afford food costs, this program can play an important role in keeping your household healthy. Applications are being accepted and processed and people who can benefit from this program are encouraged to apply.
To qualify for CalFresh benefits, your income must be below certain limits. For a single person that is currently posted as below $1,632 a month, and for a couple the limit is $2,215. However, certain deductions apply. It is best to call or go online to see if you may be eligible even if your income does not fall exactly within these amounts.
The application will include questions about your residency, citizenship, identity, Social Security Number, income, and property.
You can apply online at BenefitsCal.com. This allows you to create an account and apply instantly including uploading supporting documents. However, if you cannot apply online, you can call 1-888-472-4463 to request a paper application be mailed to you. Then, you either fax it to 805-658-4530, drop it off at a designated site, or mail it to the address provided with the application.
Food Share is a local non-profit in Ventura County that offers a listing of food banks and other food programs that can also supplement food costs. You can learn about resources in your area here https://foodshare.com/find-help/ or by calling 805- 983-7100.
You can also call 211 to find resources near you.
CalFresh is a crucial assistance program meant to help supplement food costs. Nutrition is a huge part of overall health for every age, but especially for older adults. If this program could help ease your costs, increase your nutritional intake, and reduce your stress, then take the time to apply and see if it can be part of your benefits.
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
