CalFresh Payments in May 2025: Is Your Recertification Done? Here’s How to Make Sure You Get Paid!

If you’re relying on CalFresh (the California SNAP program) for food help, you know that recertifying is part of the deal. With May 2025 just around the corner, now’s a good time to make sure your recertification is in order. Let’s break it all down for you—so you don’t miss out on your benefits.

What Is CalFresh Recertification?

So, every so often, CalFresh needs you to recertify your eligibility. This is just the state checking to see if you’re still qualified to get benefits, based on your income and household details. If your recertification is due in May 2025, make sure to get it done before April 5, 2025, to avoid delays in your benefits.

How Do You Recertify?

Recertification is easier than you might think. Here’s how you can get it done:

1. Fill out the application: You can do this online, by mail, or at your local office. If you’re not sure about any part of the form, the staff at the office can help you out—don’t hesitate to ask.

2. Have a quick interview: Usually, this will be over the phone, but if you’d prefer to do it in person, that’s an option too. Just be sure you’re available when they reach out.

3. Send in your documents: They’ll ask for proof of income, household size, and any changes in your situation. For example, if you’ve gotten a new job, had someone move in, or if your income has changed—make sure all of that’s up to date.

When Will You Get Your CalFresh Payment in May 2025?

After your recertification is approved, your benefits will show up based on the last digit of your case number. Here’s when you can expect your payment in May:

• Case number ends in 1: May 1, 2025

• Case number ends in 2: May 2, 2025

• Case number ends in 3: May 3, 2025

• Case number ends in 4: May 4, 2025

• Case number ends in 5: May 5, 2025

• Case number ends in 6: May 6, 2025

• Case number ends in 7: May 7, 2025

• Case number ends in 8: May 8, 2025

• Case number ends in 9: May 9, 2025

• Case number ends in 0: May 10, 2025

So, if your case number ends in 5, you should see your benefits hit your account on May 5, 2025. Make sure to keep an eye on your account around that time.

How Much Will You Get?

The amount you get depends on the size of your household and other things like your income. Here’s a rough idea of the maximum monthly benefits:

• 1 person: $292

• 2 people: $536

• 3 people: $768

• 4 people: $975

• 5 people: $1,158

• 6 people: $1,390

• 7 people: $1,536

• 8 people: $1,756

For households larger than 8, you’ll get $220 per additional person. Just know, your actual benefit might be a bit less depending on your household income and other factors, so the amount could vary.

What Happens If You Miss the Recertification Deadline?

If you miss the April 5, 2025 deadline, you might not get your benefits for May. To avoid this, just make sure to get your paperwork done early.

If you realize you’ve missed it, don’t stress. Call your local office ASAP. They might still be able to process your recertification, but keep in mind there could be a delay in receiving your benefits.

Need Help?

If you’re feeling stuck or have any questions, don’t hesitate to call your local county office. They can walk you through everything, and you can even visit them in person if needed. You can also check out the California Department of Social Services website for more info.

Getting your CalFresh recertification done on time will help ensure you don’t run into any delays with your benefits. So, make sure you fill out the paperwork before April 5, 2025, and keep track of when your payment is coming. A little effort now will make things a lot smoother down the road.