Manage Your EBT & CalFresh on C4Yourself

CalFresh, California’s Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), helps low-income individuals and families buy nutritious food. With C4Yourself (now BenefitsCal), managing your CalFresh benefits and EBT card is easier than ever.

This guide will walk you through applying for CalFresh, checking your EBT balance, managing transactions, and troubleshooting issues using C4Yourself.

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What is CalFresh & How Does It Work?

CalFresh is California’s version of the federal SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), helping individuals and families afford healthy food. Benefits are distributed through an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card for purchasing eligible food items.

🔹 Who Qualifies for CalFresh?

✔ Low-income households meeting federal income guidelines. ✔ U.S. citizens, legal residents, and some non-citizens. ✔ People working, unemployed, or receiving other benefits (such as Medi-Cal). ✔ College students who meet special eligibility rules.

🔹 Where Can You Use CalFresh Benefits?

• Grocery stores accepting EBT.
• Farmers’ markets offering fresh produce.
• Online retailers (Amazon, Walmart, Albertsons, etc.).
• Certain restaurants under the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP).

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How to Apply for CalFresh on C4Yourself

Applying for CalFresh through C4Yourself is quick and simple:

Step 1: Visit BenefitsCal

1. Go to BenefitsCal.com.
2. Sign in or create a new account.

Step 2: Start a New Application

1. Click “Apply for Benefits”.
2. Select CalFresh (Food Assistance) from the available programs.
3. Answer questions about household size, income, and expenses.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

• Proof of identity (Driver’s License, State ID, or Passport).
• Proof of residency (Utility bill, rental agreement).
• Proof of income (Pay stubs, tax returns, Social Security letter).

Step 4: Submit & Complete an Interview

• Submit your application and wait for a caseworker interview (via phone or in person).
• You will receive approval or denial within 30 days (emergency cases in 3 days).

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Checking Your EBT Balance & Transactions

Once approved, you will receive an EBT card to access your CalFresh benefits. Checking your EBT balance and transactions is easy:

Option 1: Check Online

1. Visit EBT.ca.gov.
2. Log in using your EBT card number and PIN.

Option 2: Use the Mobile App

1. Download the California EBT App on Google Play or Apple App Store.
2. Log in to view your balance, transaction history, and deposit schedule.

Option 3: Call the EBT Customer Service Line

• Dial 1-877-328-9677.
• Enter your EBT card number and follow the prompts.

Option 4: Check Your Last Receipt

• Your remaining balance is printed on every purchase receipt.

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How to Use Your EBT Card

Using your EBT card for food purchases is simple:

🔹 In-Store Purchases

1. Swipe your EBT card at checkout.
2. Select “EBT Food” and enter your PIN.
3. Pay for eligible food items.

🔹 Online Purchases

1. Visit Amazon, Walmart, or other approved stores.
2. Add eligible items to your cart.
3. At checkout, select EBT payment and enter your PIN.

🔹 Cash Withdrawals (For CalWORKs Recipients Only)

• Withdraw cash from ATMs or cashback locations.
• Some fees may apply.

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How to Renew Your CalFresh Benefits

CalFresh benefits require periodic renewal to continue receiving assistance.

Step 1: Receive Your Renewal Notice

• Notices are sent 90 days before benefits expire.

Step 2: Submit Renewal Through C4Yourself

1. Log in to BenefitsCal.com.
2. Click “Renew Benefits” and update your household and income details.
3. Upload updated documents (if required).
4. Submit and complete the eligibility interview.

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Common EBT & CalFresh Issues & Fixes

🔴 EBT Card Not Working?

✔ Solution: Ensure your card is activated by calling 1-877-328-9677. ✔ Solution: Check your balance to confirm available funds.

🔴 Lost or Stolen EBT Card?

✔ Solution: Call 1-877-328-9677 immediately to freeze your card and request a replacement.

🔴 Application Delayed?

✔ Solution: Check your BenefitsCal account for missing documents. ✔ Solution: Call your county office for a status update.

🔴 Transaction Denied?

✔ Solution: Ensure you’re purchasing eligible food items. ✔ Solution: Check if your card is expired or damaged.

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FAQs

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Conclusion

Managing your EBT & CalFresh benefits through C4Yourself (BenefitsCal) ensures a smooth experience. By following this guide, you can apply, check balances, renew benefits, and troubleshoot issues easily.

✅ Need to manage your benefits? Visit BenefitsCal.com today and stay on top of your CalFresh and EBT benefits! 🚀