Updated CalFresh Eligibility Ends Access for Certain Immigrant Communities

The Department of Public Social Services or DPSS announced that changes to CalFresh Program eligibility for certain non-citizens have taken effect April 1. The changes are the result of federal policy updates outlined in U.S. House of Representatives Bill H.R. 1.

Under the new policy guidelines, certain non-citizens, including, but not limited to, asylees, refugees, parolees, individuals with deportation or removal withheld, conditional entrants, and victims of trafficking, will no longer be eligible to receive CalFresh benefits.

Applicants within these categories may still qualify for CalFresh if their immigration status changes to Lawful Permanent Resident or LPR and they meet all other program eligibility requirements. Non-citizens currently receiving CalFresh benefits will continue to receive assistance until their renewal period, provided they meet all other eligibility criteria at that time.

DPSS encourages individuals and families to stay informed, remain connected, and take necessary steps to maintain their benefits. Customers are advised to update their contact information to ensure receipt of important notices, remember their renewal due dates, and check their mail regularly for renewal packets and official communications.

Additional details on H.R. 1 CalFresh Program policy changes can be found on the DPSS website. Visit the Keep Your Benefits webpage to learn how these changes may impact you.