Apply for CalFresh
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What is CalFresh?
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Contact CalFresh
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Apply for CalFresh
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Check Eligibility
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Use CalFresh
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Keep CalFresh
Steps to get CalFresh
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1
Ways to apply
- Online: Apply on BenefitsCal or GetCalFresh.org (English | Español | 中文).
Note: BenefitsCal’s new two-step verification process makes your account more secure. How to verify. - Call us at (855) 355-5757 for assistance. You can also schedule an appointment for application assistance at 2EnrollMeSF.org.
- Download the application (English | Español | 中文 | русский | Filipino | Tiếng Việt) and submit it in one of these ways:
- Fax: (415) 355-2300
- Mail: SFHSA, P.O. Box 7988, San Francisco, CA 94120
- Service Center dropbox: Outside 1440 Harrison Street from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. or at 1235 Mission Street at any time.
- In person at one of our community partner locations.
Required documents: View the types of verification you will need to provide.
- For older adults or adults with disabilities the simplified application CF 485 is available.
- Online: Apply on BenefitsCal or GetCalFresh.org (English | Español | 中文).
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Application requirements
The three minimum requirements to start your CalFresh application include:
- Applicant’s name
- Household’s address (unless applicant is experiencing homelessness)
- Signature of an adult household member
As part of the application process you will also be asked to include:
- Anyone who purchases and prepares meals together
- Everyone living at the address, such as spouse's, parents, and children under age 22
See our Check Your Eligibility page for more information, including income requirements.
View the types of verification for the complete list of required documents.
Note: Submitting an incomplete application may delay the application process. -
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After you apply
- Get interviewed.
The interview can be done by phone or in person. - Receive approval or denial of your application within 30 days by mail.
- Need immediate food assistance after submitting your application?
Call (855) 355-5757 to request Expedited Services within three days if you're experiencing a lack of income, resources, or extremely high housing expenses.
- Need immediate food assistance after submitting your application?
- Receive your EBT card by mail in one week once approved.
Your card PIN may arrive in a separate envelope. Card pick-up is available for those without access to a stable mail or phone. - Disagree with a determination or benefit amount? Contact us.
You can submit an appeal by calling (800) 952-5253, or by mailing the Appeals Unit, P.O. Box 7988, San Francisco CA 94120.
- Get interviewed.