1. Emergency CalFresh Benefits
You may be eligible to get CalFresh the same day or at most within 3 days if one of the following applies:
• The cost of your rent/mortgage payment or utilities is more than your monthly income and cash-on-hand.
• Your liquid resources are less than the gross income requirements.
To apply for emergency CalFresh, you need to do the application and check the box that says you want expedited CalFresh. The worker will ask for your proof of identity, residence, income, and resources, but you cannot be denied for not having these documents with you.
There are many ways to prove your identity, including your driver’s license, a sworn statement, a phone call to someone who knows you, a library card, or a letter addressed to you.
If your case is approved, an EBT card and PIN number will be issued no later than the third calendar day after you apply so you can access your food stamp benefits. If the third day falls on a weekend or holiday, you have the right to receive your CalFresh on that Friday. If you apply after the 15th you will get the CalFresh for that month and your next month’s CalFresh.