Welcome Class of 2028!
As an incoming graduate student, I was unaware of the CalFresh Program, how to apply, and whether I even qualified. In short, CalFresh can offer some financial relief by covering a part of grocery bill. Here’s a quick guide to CalFresh and some things I wish I knew before starting school.
What is CalFresh?
CalFresh is a California financial aid program that helps students buy food and eat healthier. Each month, you receive a monthly stipend on your CalFresh card that you do not need to pay back and can be spent at participating stores. It doesn’t affect your financial aid and you won’t need your parents’ tax information to apply. This free grocery money is super helpful for students, especially as we face sizable loans in graduate school. We can save a bit of money and stress less about putting food on the table.
Eligibility and Application
Students may be eligible for food stamps if you’re at least one of the following:
- Enrolled less than half time>
- Employed at least 20 hours / week
- Receiving federal or state work study financial aid
- Receiving cash assistance (TANF)
- Enrolled in a program that doesn’t require a high school diploma
As a graduate student, you are now considered an independent student – whether it be for FAFSA or for CalFresh. This means that as a student with little-to-no income, you will likely qualify for CalFresh because they do not take your parents’ income into consideration. You can check your eligibility and apply here, it only takes 10-15 minutes. They will ask you for a copy of your ID and for proof of any income, immigration status (for non-citizens), and student status. You can also submit housing expenses and any child support or dependent care paid. For more information on eligibility, you can refer to the official CalFresh guide here.
Once you submit your application, look out for a letter in the mail from your county detailing the date of your phone interview. This should take place within 30 days, but because the application process can take some time, I recommend applying as soon as possible.
Also, look out for the Semi-Annual Reports (SAR 7s) that you have to submit every 6 months after you start receiving CalFresh benefits. This is important to stay on top of in order to ensure you keep your benefits!
Where can I use my CalFresh?
You can use your CalFresh card at most grocery stores including Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Vons, Albertsons, H-Mart, Costco, Target, and even Tokyo Central now! You can even purchase non-alcoholic beverages and caffeinated drinks, study snacks, and pre-made meals (just remember, only cold foods such as pre-made sushi, sandwiches, etc. and no hot foods). One of my favorite ways to use my CalFresh card is at the $5 sandwich bar at Sprouts – check out this blog article for some cheap eats around school.
Other CalFresh benefits
One hidden perk to CalFresh includes free admission to many museums, gardens, and aquariums! This past summer my friends and I visited the Monterey Bay Aquarium and one CalFresh card was able to admit four people for free. For free LA activities, check out this link and use this link for free admission all over California. Also, you can qualify for if you pay for your own electricity bill via SoCal Edison.
In summary, CalFresh is an awesome program that can help save money on groceries (and utilities and entertainment!), especially for graduate students like us. It also eases some of the financial stress that comes with taking out loans for school. Be sure to apply as soon as possible before classes get too busy!