As 2025 approaches, California’s CalFresh recipients can expect a modest increase in their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits due to the annual Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA).
This adjustment is designed to account for inflation, ensuring that recipients receive enough benefits to cover rising food costs. Beginning in October 2024, these new payments will reflect the changes set forth by the USDA.
In this article, we will break down the specifics of the 2025 COLA increase, how it affects CalFresh benefits, payment schedules, and who qualifies for the adjusted amounts.
What Is the COLA Increase?
The COLA is an annual adjustment that ensures benefits like SNAP keep pace with inflation. The increase is calculated based on changes in the cost of food and other essentials, which are tracked by the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
For the 2025 fiscal year, this adjustment will result in slightly higher maximum allotments for eligible households across California.
2025 SNAP Benefits: Key Changes
Starting in October 2024, the COLA will adjust the maximum allotments, income eligibility standards, and deductions for households receiving CalFresh benefits. Here are the projected figures for California:
| Household Size | 2024 Maximum Allotment | 2025 Maximum Allotment |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $291 | $292 |
| 2 persons | $536 | $537 |
| 3 persons | $768 | $769 |
| 4 persons | $975 | $975 |
| 5 persons | $1,158 | $1,159 |
| 6 persons | $1,390 | $1,391 |
| 7 persons | $1,536 | $1,537 |
| 8 persons | $1,756 | $1,757 |
As seen from the table, households of various sizes will see a modest increase, with the maximum benefit for a family of four remaining at $975 per month. While the increase may seem small, it ensures that SNAP benefits can keep up with inflation.
How to Receive CalFresh Benefits in October 2024
The CalFresh payments in California follow a set schedule based on the last digit of the recipient’s case number. Payments will be distributed between the 1st and 10th of each month. Here’s how the distribution works:
- Case numbers ending in 1: Payments on October 1
- Case numbers ending in 2: Payments on October 2
- Case numbers ending in 3: Payments on October 3
- Case numbers ending in 4: Payments on October 4
- Case numbers ending in 5: Payments on October 5
- Case numbers ending in 6: Payments on October 6
- Case numbers ending in 7: Payments on October 7
- Case numbers ending in 8: Payments on October 8
- Case numbers ending in 9: Payments on October 9
- Case numbers ending in 0: Payments on October 10
Recipients will receive their benefits through their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards, which can be used at participating grocery stores, farmers markets, and online retailers that accept CalFresh.
Who Is Eligible for CalFresh Benefits?
Eligibility for CalFresh benefits is determined by household income, size, and certain expenses. The 2025 COLA will also affect income eligibility standards, which are designed to ensure that low-income families can access the food assistance they need.
- Gross income limit: 130% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)
- Net income limit: 100% of the FPL after deductions for expenses such as housing, utilities, and medical bills.
For example, in 2024, a household of one must earn less than $1,473 per month to qualify, while a family of four must earn less than $3,007 per month. These limits will increase slightly for 2025.
How Much Will You Get with the 2025 COLA?
The exact amount you receive from CalFresh depends on your household size, income, and expenses. The COLA increase will boost payments modestly for most households. Below is a summary of the maximum monthly benefits based on household size:
| Household Size | 2025 Maximum Monthly Benefit |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $292 |
| 2 persons | $537 |
| 3 persons | $769 |
| 4 persons | $975 |
| 5 persons | $1,159 |
| 6 persons | $1,391 |
| 7 persons | $1,537 |
| 8 persons | $1,757 |
Conclusion
The 2025 COLA increase for CalFresh (SNAP) benefits will provide a slight boost to low-income households in California, helping them cope with rising food costs.
While the increase is modest, it is essential for maintaining the purchasing power of millions of Californians who rely on these benefits. With payments arriving between the 1st and 10th of October, recipients should prepare to see slightly larger deposits on their EBT cards.
FAQs
The 2025 COLA increase for SNAP benefits will begin on October 1, 2024, with payments adjusted for all eligible recipients.
The increase is modest. For example, a family of four will continue to receive up to $975 per month, while a single individual will see their maximum benefit rise from $291 to $292.
CalFresh benefits are distributed via Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. Payments are made between the 1st and 10th of each month, based on the recipient’s case number.
CalFresh benefits are calculated based on your household size, income, and expenses. The 2025 COLA will slightly raise the income limits and maximum benefit amounts for qualifying households.
You can apply for CalFresh benefits online through the California Department of Social Services or by visiting your local county office. Eligibility is determined based on your income, household size, and certain allowable expenses.
References
- California Department of Social Services, “CalFresh Data Dashboard,” 2024.
- Food and Nutrition Service, “SNAP FY 2025 Cost-of-Living Adjustments,” 2024.
- Vibes, “CalFresh: SNAP Payments in California with the 2025 COLA Increase Coming Next Week,” 2024.
- Eduvast, “Food Stamps Increase 2025: How SNAP Benefits Are Set to Increase with COLA,” 2024.