Step 1: Look Over Eligibility Qualifications
Eligibility criteria can be reviewed on our website, or you may complete our prescreen survey to see if you appear to be eligible for CalFresh:
Step 2: Submit an Application
Option A: If you'd like assistance completing the application, please sign-up for an application assistance appointment:
*If there are no available appointment times, please reach out to us at calfreshoutreach@ucmerced.edu or stop by the Basic Needs Center.
The online application takes 10 minutes to complete and features a chat option to get assistance with your CalFresh application.
Option B: If you would like to apply on your own:
Step 3: Complete your Interview
A social worker will contact you to:
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verify the information on your application.
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inform you about your rights/responsibilities.
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request specific documentation to confirm your eligibility to the program.
Step 4: Submit Verification Forms
Required documents can be submitted:
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through mail.
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by dropping off paperwork at the county's drop-off box.
View the most common verification forms here.
- Address: 2115 Wardrobe Ave, 95341
- Phone: (209)385-3000
- Open Monday - Friday, 10AM - 11AM, 2PM - 3PM
Step 5: Receive Benefits
Your benefit amount will be disbursed within the first ten days of every month.
Step 6: Submit the SAR 7 and Annual Report
CalFresh recipients are required to report their income, expenses, and other financial changes every 6 month and year mark to keep benefits.
Other Food Support Services:
If it appears that you are ineligible for CalFresh at this time, there are other food support services available to you. Please visit our Food Support pages for more information: https://basicneeds.ucmerced.edu/food-support