Can I use my CalFresh EBT card while traveling outside California?

Yes, you can definitely use your CalFresh EBT card in any state! The CalFresh/SNAP program is nationwide, so your California EBT card will work at any grocery store, supermarket, or farmer's market that accepts SNAP benefits across the country. You don't need to notify your caseworker for temporary travel - it's only if you're permanently moving that you'd need to report a change of address. Just make sure you're back in California for any scheduled recertification appointments or if you need to submit your SAR7 during that time period.

Thank you! That's such a relief. My SAR7 isn't due until August so I should be fine. Will my balance update normally even if I'm out of state?

yep works everywhere! i used mine in oregon last month no problem

Actually this is correct but not complete. Your EBT card will work in other states, but just remember that restaurant meals program (if you qualify in CA) only works in California, not other states. Regular grocery purchases are fine though!

Everyone saying it works everywhere but when I went to Florida last year my card got declined at the first store I tried!!! Had to call the EBT customer service number on the back of the card. Turns out they had put a fraud hold on it because of the sudden out-of-state purchase. So just be prepared you might need to call if that happens!!!! The number is usually 1-877-328-9677 unless it's changed for 2025.

Oh wow I didn't even think about that! Thanks for the heads up, I'll save that number in my phone just in case.

As others have mentioned, your EBT card will work in other states. However, here are some additional things to keep in mind: 1. Make sure you're still meeting residency requirements - temporary travel is fine, but extended absences could potentially affect your eligibility 2. If your recertification or SAR7 is due while you're away, you can complete it online through BenefitsCal.com 3. If you need to contact your Madera County worker while away and can't get through on the main line, you might want to try Claimyr.com - they can help you skip the phone queue and connect with a worker quickly. They have a demo video at https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8 that shows how it works. I used it when I was out of town and needed to resolve an issue with my case. 4. Keep your receipts if your card gets declined, just in case you need to reference them later. Enjoy your trip!

Thank you for all these tips! I'll check out that website if I need to reach someone. My recertification isn't until November so that shouldn't be an issue, but good to know I can do it online if needed.

Does anyone know if theres limits on how long u can be out of state? My cousin said if ur gone more then 30 days they can cut ur benefits off cause ur not a CA resident anymore??? Is that true?? Im planning a 6 week trip to see my mom in texas next year and worried about my calfresh.

Great question! CalFresh has a residency requirement, meaning you must be a California resident to receive CA benefits. Temporary travel doesn't affect this, but if you're establishing residency elsewhere (getting a new driver's license, registering to vote, etc.), that could affect eligibility. For a 6-week trip where you're maintaining your CA home and planning to return, you should be fine. However, if your SAR7 or recertification falls during that period, make sure to complete it on time. The general guideline is that absences over 30 days might require explanation, but won't automatically disqualify you if you're maintaining CA residency. I'd recommend reporting your temporary absence to your county worker just to be safe.

I go to Oregon every summer for 2 months and never had issues using my card there. But one time I forgot to turn in my SAR7 before I left and my benefits got cut off! So make sure any paperwork is taken care of before you go. You can submit most stuff through the BenefitsCal app now which makes it easier when traveling.

Great point about the paperwork! I'll double check if anything is due while I'm gone. Didn't know about the app - just downloaded it!

Unrelated but make sure you're aware of the new IRT (Income Reporting Threshold) rules for 2025. They increased the thresholds by like 30% so you have more flexibility before having to report income changes. Probably not relevant to your travel question but good to know in general.

I actually didn't know this - thanks for the info! I do some freelance work on the side so this is helpful.

Just wanted to add that if you're planning to use your EBT card at farmers markets in Arizona or Nevada, make sure to check which ones accept SNAP benefits first. Not all farmers markets are set up for EBT payments, even if they do in California. You can usually find this info on the market's website or by calling ahead. Also, some stores in smaller towns might not be familiar with out-of-state EBT cards, so don't be surprised if a cashier seems confused - just let them know it works the same as any other EBT card. Have a great trip!