November CalFresh Benefits Delay: Frequently Asked Questions

We can't say for certain why your benefits haven't loaded yet. We are seeing that some clients who were approved after the USDA told states to pause benefit issuance are not receiving their benefits. SSA leadership is closely monitoring news about the federal government's appeal to the Supreme Court. 

No, CalFresh benefits are only being delayed due to the federal shutdown. November CalFresh benefits are delayed beginning November 1 due to the federal government shutdown. We anticipate delayed CalFresh benefits will be loaded onto your EBT card once the shutdown ends.

November CalFresh benefits will be delayed beginning November 1 due to the federal government shutdown, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. We anticipate delayed CalFresh benefits will be loaded onto your EBT card once the shutdown ends.

No, your CalFresh case is not closed. November CalFresh benefits are delayed beginning November 1 due to the federal government shutdown. We anticipate delayed CalFresh benefits will be loaded onto your EBT card once the shutdown ends.

Yes, if you still have benefits on your EBT card, you can use them. However, no new CalFresh benefits will be available beginning November 1 until the shutdown ends. 

Yes, please continue to submit semi-annual reports (SAR 7), recertifications (REs) and verification documents upon request as usual.

Yes, you can apply online at BenefitsCal.com, by calling (800) 281-9799 or by visiting one of our SSA offices. EBT cards will continue to be issued; however, November CalFresh benefits will not be available until the federal government shutdown ends.

Please visit 211oc.org – you can search for local food pantries and soup kitchens by zip code, as well as housing and utility resources. You can also call 2-1-1, though we recommend checking their website first for faster assistance.

There’s no impact to CalWORKs or Medi-Cal benefits at this time. More information will be shared if anything changes.