CalFresh emergency allotments ended - will they return in 2025?

Emergency allotments ended permanently in February 2023. Your neighbor is probably confused or spreading misinfo. The federal government stopped the program completely, so states can't issue those extra payments anymore. Everyone just gets their regular calculated benefit amount now based on income/expenses. I don't think they're coming back unless there's another pandemic or something similar.

not true my caseworker said there talking about it because of crazy inflation! they might call it something different but same thing as before

To give you the most accurate information: The CalFresh emergency allotments (EA) were a federal program that provided extra benefits during the COVID-19 public health emergency. They officially ended nationwide after February 2023 benefits were issued. This wasn't California's decision - it was federal legislation that terminated the program.\n\nRegarding 2025: There are currently NO plans at the federal or state level to reinstate emergency allotments or create a similar program. Any information suggesting otherwise is unfortunately not accurate. The regular CalFresh program continues with benefits calculated based on household size, income, and allowable deductions.\n\nIf you're struggling with your current benefit amount, I'd recommend requesting a reassessment if you've had any changes in expenses like: \n- Increased rent/housing costs \n- Higher utility bills \n- New childcare expenses \n- Medical expenses (for elderly/disabled household members) \n\nThese can all increase your monthly benefit amount if properly documented.

Thank you for the detailed explanation! That makes sense. My rent actually went up $300 since my last recertification, plus I'm paying more for childcare now. I should probably report those changes. Do I need to wait for my next SAR7 or recertification, or can I report these changes that increase my benefits anytime?

I work for a food bank and believe me, we ALL wish emergency allotments were coming back! So many families are struggling without them. The regular CalFresh benefits just don't stretch far enough with today's food prices. But unfortunately, there's absolutely nothing in the works at federal level. The program ended Feb 2023 and would require new congressional action to restart.\n\nIf you're having trouble affording groceries, please look into local food banks. Many have expanded their operations specifically because so many families were affected when the emergency allotments ended.

This is great advice. Also worth noting that CalFresh benefits got their annual cost-of-living adjustment in October 2024, which increased benefit amounts by about 3% for most households. Not nearly as much as the emergency allotments provided, but it does help a little with inflation.

tHE GOVERNMENT DOESNT CARE ABOUT US ANYMORE!!! they gave us the extra $ during covid but now that its over they dont care if we can afford food?? prices are HIGHER than during covid but were getting LESS benefits!!!

EXACTLY!!! like how does this make sense? my grocery bill is like 40% higher than 2020 but my benefits went back to normal and dont cover half what i need

I had this same question last month when I was recertifying! The worker I talked to said they ended in February 2023 and there's been no discussion about bringing them back. She suggested I look into the

Thanks for the tip! I'm not elderly or disabled so I don't think I qualify for the medical deduction, but that's good info for others to know about.

Since others have already explained when the emergency allotments ended (February 2023), I'll add some helpful context. If you're struggling with your current benefit amount, you don't have to wait for your SAR7 or recertification to report changes that could INCREASE your benefits. Changes like higher rent, increased utility costs, reduced income, or new childcare expenses can be reported anytime. \n\nHowever, getting through to your county office can be frustrating. If you're having trouble reaching someone about reporting these changes, there's a service called Claimyr that can help you skip the CalFresh phone queues. They have a video demo at https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8 and their website is claimyr.com. Many people in our community forum have mentioned it helped them actually reach a live person instead of waiting for hours or getting disconnected.

Oh that's good to know about reporting positive changes anytime! And thanks for that service recommendation - the county office always has such long wait times that I usually give up after 40 minutes. I'll check this out since I definitely need to report my rent and childcare increases.

my friend in nevada says they still get the extra amount but i think shes lying lol

Your friend is definitely mistaken. The emergency allotments ended in ALL states after February 2023 benefits were issued. This was due to federal legislation (the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023) that terminated the program nationwide. No state has the authority to continue emergency allotments as they were funded through specific federal emergency provisions that are no longer available.

Thanks everyone for the clear answers! I understand now that the emergency allotments ended back in February 2023 and aren't coming back anytime soon. I'm going to call tomorrow to report my rent and childcare cost increases - hopefully that helps boost my benefits a bit. And I'll check out the local food bank too.

Good plan! Also remember that many farmers markets double CalFresh benefits through the Market Match program (up to $10 per visit at most markets). It's a great way to stretch your benefits and get fresh produce!