Cal Fresh Benefits

Benefits

Students may be eligible to receive between $23 and $291 per month to help purchase groceries, depending on their income and household size. (Current as of January 2025).
Benefits can roll over from month to month if unused (up to 12 months).
Benefits can be used across the United States wherever EBT is accepted.
Benefits can be used to buy most groceries, including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, and packaged foods.
Benefits cannot be used for hot, prepared foods intended for immediate consumption.
Benefits also cannot be used to buy alcohol, medicine, toiletries, or household supplies.

Local Stores:

Use your EBT card at participating grocery stores, supermarkets, and convenience stores near you.

Farmers Markets:

Many farmers markets accept CalFresh benefits, and some offer Market Match, which helps stretch your food dollars. Check out Orange County Farmers Markets for locations.

Online Stores:

You can use your benefits to buy eligible groceries online from approved retailers like Amazon, Walmart, and others.

Restaurant Meals Program:

If you are registered as homeless, disabled, or elderly, you may qualify to use your CalFresh benefits at participating restaurants through the Restaurant Meals Program. Visit CalFresh for a list or map of participating locations near you.

An EBT card lets you use your CalFresh food benefits to buy groceries. Just swipe it like a debit or credit card at checkout.