Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible for CalFresh?

What documents do I need to apply to CalFresh?

Proof of Identification (Driver’s License, State ID, passport)
Financial Aid Award Letter, if applicable (include offer of work study, CalGrant A/B) (access through MyCSUEB > Financial Aid > Awards > Summary)
Screenshot of your Class Schedule
Proof of Income received in the past 30 days, if applicable (paystubs, Venmo/CashApp/Zelle transactions, stipends, unemployment benefits, etc)
- What counts as income?
Proof of Housing Expenses (not required but helpful) (lease agreement, housing contract, Venmo/CashApp/Zelle payments, rental portal screenshots, etc)

What can I buy with my CalFresh benefits?

You can use your CalFresh benefits at local grocery stores, convenience stores, and farmer’s markets. You can buy almost anything with a nutrition label. It’s easier to say what you can’t buy with your benefits, which is any medicines, household goods, alcohol, and hot foods meant to be eaten in the store.

Can I apply to CalFresh as an International Student?

Do I need to report CalFresh benefits on my taxes?

Does financial aid count as income?

Financial Aid does not count as income. Generally, money that has been granted to a student specifically for educational purposes does not count as income.

Do I have to report my work study income?

Work-study income does not count as income. However, your caseworker will still ask you to report your income. Please submit any paystubs you have received through work-study and clearly indicate that it is work-study income.

Do I need to pay the government back?

As long as you correctly report your income, you will not need to pay the government back for your CalFresh Benefits. If the county discovers that they have overissued you benefits due to misreported income, you will be required to pay back the overissuance.

Do I have to apply with my roommates?

You can apply to CalFresh as a single-person household even if you have roommates. If you purchase and prepare more than half of your meals with your roommates, you can apply to CalFresh with your roommates. We encourage roommates to apply on their own as they may receive more benefits as a single-person household.

How much in CalFresh benefits will I receive?

The amount of CalFresh benefits a household receives depends on their household size, income, and expenses. The less income a household receives, the more CalFresh benefits they can receive. The more expenses a household has, the more CalFresh benefits they can receive.

See the Income Threshold and Maximum Benefits Allotment in Eligibility Information for specific numbers.

I lost my EBT Card. How do I get another one?

Call customer service right away at (877) 328-9677. Wait through two card number prompts without entering your EBT card number and you will hear a prompt to report your card as lost or stolen.
Alameda County Residents: Request a new EBT Card on the Virtual Kiosk.
BenefitsCal.com Users: Request support and request an EBT Card Replacement.

Still have questions?

Speak with a H.O.P.E. CalFresh Ambassador!

Contact Us

Pioneer's for H.O.P.E. CalFresh Outreach

SHCS Building, Rm. 1121
25800 Carlos Bee Blvd
Hayward, CA 94542

Phone: 510-885-4810
Email: calfresh@csueastbay.edu

Office Hours
Monday - Friday | 10 am - 4 pm | Virtual and In-Person

Frequently Asked Questions