Moving from California to North Carolina - Can I transfer my CalFresh EBT or need to reapply?

Unfortunately, CalFresh benefits cannot transfer between states. You'll need to close your California case and apply for SNAP (that's what food stamps are called at the federal level) in North Carolina. Each state administers their own program with different rules and systems. Here's what you should do: 1. Notify your Sacramento County worker about your move and when to close your case (time this carefully so you don't lose benefits you're entitled to) 2. Use up any remaining benefits on your EBT card before moving (they're still yours even after your case closes) 3. Apply for SNAP in North Carolina as soon as possible after establishing residency NC has different income limits and benefit calculations, so your benefit amount might change. I recommend applying online through North Carolina's ePass system as soon as you have your new address.

when i moved from nevada to cali last year it took forever to get my calfresh started!!!! they kept asking for more documents n stuff i already sent them. the whole process took like 2 months so make sure u have enough money saved up for groceries until your nc benefits kick in

I moved from CA to Georgia in 2023 and here's what I learned the hard way: DO NOT cancel your CalFresh until you're actually physically moved to NC. Use every last dollar on your EBT before leaving CA, because once you close your case, any remaining benefits will eventually be removed (though you usually have like 9 months or something to use them). Also the income limits in southern states tend to be lower than California, so be prepared that you might get less benefits or possibly not qualify depending on your household income. Good luck with the move!

The previous responses are mostly correct, but I want to clarify a few things: 1. SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) is the federal program name, but each state administers their own version with different names, application processes, and sometimes additional rules. 2. North Carolina's program is actually called Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), not SNAP when you're looking for application information. 3. You cannot apply for NC benefits until you're actually residing there. 4. The verification requirements in NC may differ from California's, so have these documents ready: ID, social security cards for all household members, proof of residence in NC, income verification, and expense documentation. 5. Expedited service (emergency benefits) may be available in NC if you qualify, which could get you benefits within 7 days. For the smoothest transition, I recommend notifying your California eligibility worker about your planned move about 10-15 days before your departure, requesting your case be closed at the end of your departure month.

When i moved to another state I tried calling my county office for WEEKS to close my case properly and could never get through!!! So frustrating because I was worried about being accused of double-dipping or fraud if my old case stayed active while I applied in the new state. Have you had any luck getting through to Sacramento County? Their phone system is THE WORST.

Don't forget that when you aaply in NC they might want to see proof that your CA benefits are closed. When I moved they were super strict about making sure I wasn't getting benefits in 2 states at once even though I TOLD them I wasn't. So get something in writing from CA saying your case is closed!

One more important tip: If your household income will be very limited immediately after moving, make sure to mention that when applying in North Carolina. If you meet the criteria, you may qualify for expedited benefits, which can be approved within 7 days. Also, North Carolina's verification requirements are somewhat stricter than California's, so be prepared to provide: - Photo ID for the applicant - Birth certificates or other identity verification for children - Social Security numbers for everyone - Proof of NC residence (lease, utility bills, etc.) - Income verification for the past 30 days - Bank statements Their income limits for 2025 are approximately $3,190 for a household of 4 (gross monthly income), but this varies based on household size and circumstances.

ur EBT card from cali WONT work in nc after ur case is closed!!! make sure u spend whatevers left b4 moving!!! happened to my sister she thought she could still use her old benefits but the card got declined and it was so embarrassing for her at the checkout

The most important thing is timing! When I moved states last year, I timed it so my previous state benefits closed at the end of the month when we moved, then I applied in the new state on the 1st day of the next month. This minimized the gap. You'll definitely want to apply as soon as you have an NC address though - even if you're still in temporary housing there. Just make sure you've officially closed your CA case first. Good luck with your move!

As someone who helps families navigate benefit transitions, I wanted to add a few practical tips for your move: 1. Contact food banks in both Sacramento and your destination city in NC - they can help bridge the gap during your transition period and don't have the same residency requirements as government benefits. 2. Consider applying for WIC in NC if you have children under 5 or are pregnant/breastfeeding - it's a separate program that can provide additional food assistance and often has faster processing times. 3. Keep detailed records of everything - dates you contacted CA about closing your case, copies of documents you submit to NC, etc. This paper trail can be crucial if any issues arise. 4. Look into local churches and community organizations in your new NC area - many have emergency food assistance programs that can help immediately while you wait for your SNAP application to process. The transition is definitely stressful, but with proper planning and backup resources, you can minimize the gap in food assistance for your family. Wishing you a smooth move!