When will 2025 emergency CalFresh allotments be added to EBT cards in California?

Thanks for the info! I didn't realize it was only for certain zip codes. I'll definitely check the BenefitsCal site. I'm in 92503 area, and we had a lot of smoke but no actual fires nearby, so maybe I don't qualify after all.

You're partially right. The pandemic emergency allotments did end in 2023, but this is different - it's specifically for the regions affected by the recent wildfires in Northern and Southern California. The state requested and received USDA approval for a Disaster CalFresh program (D-CalFresh) for households in impacted areas. It's not automatic for everyone on CalFresh - just those in specific disaster-declared zip codes who either lost food, income, or had disaster-related expenses.

Both can actually be correct depending on your situation. If you're already receiving regular CalFresh and live in an affected zip code, you might automatically get a supplement. But if you don't normally get CalFresh OR if you had specific disaster losses (like food spoilage due to power outages, evacuation costs, property damage), you would need to submit a D-CalFresh application to document those losses. The automatic payments are typically smaller than what you might get if you document specific losses through the application process.

I had the same problem last month! I ended up using this service called Claimyr that got me through to an actual CalFresh worker in about 10 minutes instead of waiting on hold all day. The service calls the office for you and then calls you back when they reach a real person. It was super helpful when I was trying to sort out my recertification problems. Check out their demo video: https://youtu.be/eZ19FHRETv8?si=_CXnXqNXbLl26WB8 or their website claimyr.com. Saved me hours of frustration especially since the county lines are extra busy with everyone calling about these emergency benefits.

This particular emergency supplement is for CalFresh only (the food portion of your EBT). CalWORKs has a different disaster relief process called "Immediate Need" where you'd need to specifically apply and state your emergency situation. They're two separate programs with different disaster response procedures, even though benefits for both might come on the same EBT card.

Thanks for sharing! Glad you got your benefits. Sounds like they're actually sending them out now. I'll keep checking my balance.

I understand your frustration. Unfortunately, the county workers are sometimes confused about disaster protocols themselves because these emergency programs aren't implemented often. For documenting losses, typically you'd need receipts for replacement food, hotel stays if you evacuated, or repair bills if your home was damaged. If you don't have receipts, a written self-declaration of losses is usually accepted. You might have better luck going in person to your county office with whatever documentation you do have, rather than calling. The in-person workers often have more training on disaster procedures.

Thank you so much for this update! Really helpful to know exactly when to expect it. I checked and my zip code is listed, so I should be getting something soon. Will keep an eye on my balance.