Finally got approved for CalFresh but only $22/month - is this normal for part-time workers?

That's unfortunately pretty normal for your income level. CalFresh benefits are on a sliding scale, and since you're working 30 hours at that wage, you're probably hitting close to what they consider the upper income limits. The calculation takes into account your income minus allowable deductions like rent (but only up to a certain amount) and utilities. If you're a household of 1 with no dependents, $22 is actually common when you're near the income threshold.

definitly get the EBT card!! even tho its only $22 its still free money basically. plus if ur income ever changes (like if u lose hours or something) they can adjust ur benefits faster if u already have the card set up

You should check if they applied the standard utility allowance (SUA) in your calculation. If you pay for heating/cooling separately from rent, you qualify for a higher deduction which could increase your benefits. Also, make sure they counted your correct work hours - sometimes they estimate monthly income incorrectly. When you get your approval letter, check the income they calculated against your actual pay stubs. Even with the correct calculation, $22 is common for your income level. The system is designed to provide maximum benefits to those with little/no income and tapers off as income increases.

When I first got calfresh they gave me $27/month which was a joke. Then I submitted my actual bills and it went up to $68. Still not great but better. They don't automatically give you credit for all your expenses unless you show them!!

$22 is RIDICULOUS! The whole system is broken. I was in almost your exact situation last year and got $245/month. Something is definitely wrong with your calculation. These workers make mistakes ALL THE TIME and don't care because it's not their money. Call and demand a recalculation!

I had the same issue trying to get through to someone at the county office to ask about my low benefit amount. After getting disconnected THREE times and wasting my entire lunch break, I found this service called Claimyr that got me through to a real person in under 5 minutes. They called the CalFresh office for me and then connected me when they got a live worker. Saved me hours of frustration. Their website is claimyr.com and they have a demo video at https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8. Worth it to get actual answers instead of that awful automated system.

I'm curious - did you report any medical expenses or childcare costs? Those can significantly impact your benefit amount. Also, if your income fluctuates at all (like if you sometimes get fewer hours), make sure to report that on your SAR7 when the time comes. Even small changes can sometimes bump up your benefits.

One important thing to remember is that your CalFresh benefits will be recalculated every 6 months when you submit your SAR7 (Semi-Annual Report). If your income decreases or your rent increases during that time, your benefits could go up. Just make sure you submit the SAR7 on time - if you miss the deadline, your benefits could be discontinued altogether and you'd have to reapply.

btw $22 buys more than u think if u shop smart!! i get around the same amount and i use it for eggs rice beans and frozen veggies each month. not exciting but it helps!!

Hey Kai! I went through something similar last year. That $22 amount actually sounds about right for your income level unfortunately. One thing that helped me was making sure I had all my utility bills documented properly - even if you only pay electric separately, that $85/month should qualify you for the Standard Utility Allowance which gives you a higher deduction. Also, definitely get that EBT card activated! I use mine strategically at stores that double manufacturer coupons and it stretches way further than you'd think. You can check your card status online at the California EBT website once you get it. Hang in there - every little bit helps when you're trying to make ends meet in this economy!

I'm in almost the exact same boat as you! Got approved for $28/month working part-time at Target. At first I was frustrated too, but honestly it's been a lifesaver for buying basics like oatmeal, peanut butter, and canned goods. The thing that surprised me was how much further it goes when you focus on cost-per-serving instead of just looking at the total. Also, if your hours ever get cut (which happens a lot in retail), you can report that change right away and potentially get more benefits without waiting for your next review. Definitely worth getting the card - I've been using mine for almost a year now and it really does add up!

Congrats on getting approved, Kai! I know it's frustrating when the amount seems so small, but $22 is actually pretty typical for your income level. I'm a single person working similar hours and got $19/month when I first applied. What really helped me was calling to make sure they had all my expense documentation - turns out they missed my utility costs entirely. Also, don't underestimate how much that $22 can stretch! I use mine exclusively for pantry staples like rice, beans, oats, and eggs at discount stores. It covers my basics for the month and frees up my cash for other necessities. Definitely get that EBT card - worst case you're out nothing, best case you save $22+ every month on groceries!