Step 1: Explore CalFresh Eligibility
Take our CalFresh prescreen eligibility survey below to see if you appear to be eligible!
You have the right to apply to CalFresh, even if you do not appear to be eligible. If you have questions about prescreen results, please contact our team at Calfreshoutreach@ucmerced.edu.
Step 2: Submit an Application
Want help applying? Book an appointment with a CalFresh advocate today! Spring 2025 appointments available January 21 - May 1.
Need help outside of the appointment times listed? Contact our team at Calfreshoutreach@ucmerced.edu.
Prefer to apply on your own?
The online application takes 10 minutes to complete and features a chat option to get assistance with your CalFresh application. If you already have benefits in another county and want to transfer them to Merced simply follow this link to learn more about Inter-County Transfers (ICT).
Step 3: Submit Verification Forms
Required documents can be submitted:
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Online through a BenefitsCal account
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Through mail or county's drop-off box
Note: You can view the most common verification forms here.
Step 4: Complete Your Interview
Caseworker
You will be assigned a caseworker along with an interview data and time, all of this information will be sent to you via mail. The county will call at that time and date to conduct a phone interview.
Note: This can also be found on your BenefitsCal Portal once you link your case.
Phone Interview
During your phone interview with the county, your caseworker will:
- verify the information on your application
- inform you about your rights/responsibilities
- request specific documentation
- determine approval or denial of benefits
- determine your benefit amount
Don't Miss the Call
The county will call from (209) 385-3000. Be sure that your phone does not filter unknown callers and be ready during your listed call time and date.
Reach out to the county office if you have not received your call within 30 days.
Step 5: Receive Benefits
If you are approved for your CalFresh benefits, you will receive an approval letter.
Note: When you receive expedited services, you will receive an approval letter with pending verification. You MUST submit your pending verification forms within the next 10 business days to receive benefits the following month.
Your benefit amount will be disbursed within the first ten days of every month.
Step 6: Submit the SAR 7 and Annual Recertification
CalFresh recipients are required to report their income, expenses, and other financial changes every 6 month and year mark to keep benefits.
Check out BenefitsCal to easily maintain benefits! Visit our Managing Benefits page for more information or ask our team for assistance!
