If the household does not respond or responds but refuses to provide sufficient information, the county shall act on the change by removing the individual from the household and adjusting benefits accordingly. Your application will not be approved without these documents: DPSS sends all important information via the mail. Modal will refresh advising the file was successfully uploaded. If you are a UC employee, statements can be foundhere. From the Consumer Home, go down the page to Account Information and open the arrow on the right. CalFresh is the largest food program in California and provides an essential hunger safety net. [Sanchez v. County of San Diego, 464 F.3d 916 (9th Cir. The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has issued instructions regarding changes to the semi-annual reporting and annual recertification processes. You may be eligible for CalFresh. CalFresh is only concerned with who you regularly cook and prepare foods with. The date of application is the date the CalFresh 25. Interpretation services available in all languages. disability), Verified by customers statement on the application, You can follow along with one of our CalFresh Ambassadors here! ], how the CalFresh program verifies information, U.S. 1. Below is a list of examples of documents that may be needed when applying for CalFresh benefits. CalFresh (also known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP) is a nutrition assistance program sponsored by the USDA that helps people purchase healthy foods. We have weekly office hours via Zoom for application assistance or questions. CalFresh benefits can help buy nutritious foods for a better diet. [Id.] You can also use your case number provided in the letter to create a BenefitsCal account and link your case, to check the status of your case and update your verification documents. [Id. }, Questions? Are you a college student? Family Resource Center via U.S. mail or drop it off at your local Dont miss out on food benefits. We can help you complete your SAR 7 form over the phone and submit it on your behalf. ], No fixed address is necessary. ), Planning & Development Services Contact/Office, Identity may The CalFresh office commonly checks information from government and state agencies as well. Click Upload Document and select the document type for the document you want to upload. The other information/documents can be given to the eligibility worker later (See FAQ, " What is CalFresh Expedited Service ?") [Id. be verified through a variety of documents, including but not Family Resource Center. Use this form to learn if you are likely eligible, Book an appointment with the CalFresh team. [Id.] Estimate what you might pay for your plan with the help of our Note, you are still able to apply even if the pre-screener indicates you are . Documents are the counties primary source of verification for everything except residency and household size. Click on Add Document under Upload Document.. If you are an Alameda County resident, you now have the option to complete, sign, upload verification, and submit your CalFresh recertification (CF37) on this site to keep receiving your CalFresh benefits. Examples of rent/housing expenses may include: If you are paying for tuition, mandatory fees, books, supplies, transportation, dependent care, or other education-related expenses, you can include verification with your application. The CalFresh offices rules about verification must not have the effect of discriminating against any group of people. Tell your case worker during your interview. [7 C.F.R. Home visits conducted by the CalFresh office do not violate the Fourth Amendment or the Due Process clause of the Fourteenth Amendment. Residency must be verified to the extent possible, using all documents already provided by a household. Your approval notice, EBT card, and new PIN will arrive by paper mail at the address you provided. CalFresh is for people with low-income who meet federal income eligibility rules and want to add to their budget to put healthy and nutritious food on the table. In general, counties should verify only mandatory eligibility factors for CalFresh unless its for the purpose of maximizing benefits. [ACIN 1-45-11], SNAP regulations require applicants to give the case worker proof of 14 things. Undergraduates can apply anytime for CalFresh online. The CalFresh office should be flexible about what is acceptable verification. [Id.] [All County Welfare Directors Letter, January 29, 2021. When field representatives from the CalFresh office make contact with applicants, they must identify themselves as field representatives, and ask for permission to enter the applicants home. This is required to complete the CalFresh application. [7 C.F.R. CalFresh benefits stretch food budgets, allowing individuals and families to afford . To learn about this policy change, see the Expansion of CalFresh to SSI Recipients Partner Flyer located here: (English) (Spanish). contact your county social services agency, Medi-Cal: Health coverage for California families, California Lifeline: Discounted home phone and cell phone services, Contact Your County Social Services Households may self-certify their dependent care costs, and the county may ask for proof only if the statement is questionable. This is required to complete the CalFresh application. EBT 2259: Report of Electronic Theft of Benefits. CalFresh, also known as SNAP/EBT, is a long term food assistance program that awards eligible students up to $281 per month for groceries. Applicants must submit a verification of their CalWORKs/CalFRESH eligibility status, which may include the most recent Notice of Action showing TANF eligibility or a copy of your last aid check stub. Submit a request in the Financial Aid message center for your work-study eligibility letter. Semi-Annual Report (SAR 7). You can outreach by calling the phone number from the documents the county says, by calling the CalFresh Access Line, or by having a UCSD CalFresh Assistant outreach to the county on your behalf. A household must apply for CalFresh benefits in the county in which it lives. The county cannot require a specific type of verification be used. [Id. Complete the Basic Needs Center CalFresh Pre-Screener; We highly recommend completing the Basic Needs Center's CalFresh pre-screener before you apply for CalFresh. Click on the Upload Document button for the household member who needs to submit documents. If the household does not want the CalFresh office to contact the person selected by a case worker, the household should be given an alternative means to verify information, or withdraw its application. It is very important to bring all Documents You Need to Have for CalFresh Application All CalFresh applicants must submit verifications. Counties cannot obtain consumer credit reports without written authorization of the applicant or recipient. 272.8(c)(1)(ii), MPP 20-006.541.] ", In the empty text box towards the end of the application, which asks if you have anything else to add, please copy and paste the following text: I am in a California Dept. Click "Submit as Verification" for that document. The second part of the application is submitting verification documents. 273.2(f)(5)(i).] Select the document type for the document you want to upload. Sacramento, CA 95814, CalFresh = Food Stamps = SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), only need to be verified when information provided by the household is questionable, or if the students mental or physical unfitness is not evident. 517 - 12th Street The modern statewide food program that helps you buy groceries when youre out of work or working less. [See 7 C.F.R. This resource is designed to assistcounty eligibility workers and other partners who provide services to the public. Health [7 C.F.R. No person can participate as a member of more than one household, or in more than one county in any month. Some of these are necessary for ALL applicants while others are only necessary for some. CalFresh Benefits Helpline 1-877-847-3663. Because of your income, you may be able to sign up now, even if you don't have another qualifying life event. CalFresh Verification Document to view the list of documents you can use to provide proper verification. Program. From the Consumer Home, continue down the page. Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.Saturday and Sunday: ClosedMay 4: 8 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.May 5: Closed. evaluated for expedited services (to receive CalFresh within 3 days). The county must not require verification of zero income unless it is questionable. 273.3(a); MPP 63-401.1.] [ACL 20-135. See below for details on how to use MyBenefitsCalWIN. Click to find the nearest food distribution site. CalCentral >> My Academics >> scroll down to Academic Records on the bottom left >> Enrollment Verification >> Request Official Verification, Make sure to select include: "My Program and Plan" as well as "My Earned Degrees", Rent receipt (if you pay rent online, a receipt should be emailed to you), Lease agreement which indicates the amount you pay, Venmo/Zelle transactions that show your name and the amount you pay, CalCentral >> My Finances >> View PDF Statement >> under Your Bills select the document with your most recent bill. Our calculator will be back soon, but you can still learn more about how Covered California works. CalFresh offices should tell applicants clearly what verifiable information they must bring in, and the date by which they must bring in that information. The SAWS 2 Plus, CF 285 and CF 37 now include authorization for counties to obtain consumer credit reports. [Id. If you are eligible to CalFresh Expedited Service, you will only need to show your identification. Step 6: In order to keep your CalFresh benefits, you will be required to do the following every 6 months: Complete a Semiannual Report ( SAR 7 Eligibility Status Report form) 6 months after your initial application is approved. We'll guide you step by step. Step II: Submit Online Submit your verification 273.2(d), see also MPP 63-505.12. v. Whitburn, 67 F.3d 1299, 1306-7, 131 (7th Cir. [ACWDL, November 18, 2022.] Counties cannot require applicants or recipients to submit hard-copy documentation that is duplicative of the information obtained from a consumer credit report. It will help us process your Disaster CalFresh application faster. endstream endobj 46 0 obj <>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text]>>/Subtype/Form/Type/XObject>>stream the caller to complete on his or her own, Connecting EBT cards are accepted at most grocery stores, corner stores, and farmer's markets. If a county takes adverse action based on information in a consumer credit report, the county must provide an informing notice in addition to the notice of action. It is very important to send proof of identity to be evaluated This should take about 10 minutes. Please note that this is a "suggested" list of acceptable verifications. CalFresh Required Documentation What CalFresh Verification documents will I need? CalFresh benefits issued through Electronic Benefit Transfer, also known as EBT card, can be used in grocery stores and participating Farmers Markets. DPSS Rancho Park Office 11110 W Pico Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90064 Monday - Friday, 8:00am-5:00pm, Student Activities Center If you are 60+ or disabled, or you do not have access to cooking equipment, you might also qualify for the CalFresh prepared meals program. Food Benefits for Today's Families CalFresh Food benefits are the convenient way to get grocery help when you need it most. Want to know if youre eligible? ], Counties must not send a request for missing verification or deny a case based on missing verification, unless they have first checked all available electronic sources or determined whether client statement is an allowable option. both Covered California and no-cost or low-cost coverage through Medi-Cal. 273.2(b)(4), (f)(4)(ii); MPP 63-300.5(h)(2).] *Ug.h-:J^8+jXQ,@D [Id.] [7 C.F.R. 273.1(c), 273.2(f)(4)(i).] Be sure to submit ALL of the necessary verification documents (see below). The CalFresh Program, federally known as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), issues monthly electronic benefits that can be used to buy most foods at many markets and food stores. Homeless, elderly or disabled persons may purchase prepared meals from participating . We have weekly office hours via Zoom for application assistance or questions. link to begin the process. completed application and documents to your. Available in English, Spanish, and Chinese (pending). [7 C.F.R. Find out if you are [Id. If the information received during the certification period is considered unclear and is less than 60 days old relative to the first day of the month in which the information was received, and indicates the household missed a required report, the county must issue a request for verification to the household. [7 C.F.R. You should also check your paper mail, since notices will be sent to the address you provided in the application. . ], If an applicant or recipient has applied for Unemployment Insurance but is not yet receiving that benefit, the county must accept a statement under penalty of perjury that the applicant or recipient is not receiving Unemployment Insurance, even if that statement differs from documentary evidence from the Employment Development Department. Diego Board of Supervisors Department Contacts Media Information, Child & Family Strengthening Advisory Board, Economic Development and Government Affairs, Discretionary Permits (Administrative Permits, Major Use, Site Plans, Variances. [7 C.F.R. " [Id. CalFresh Food benefits are the convenient way to get grocery help when you need it most. If you have a meal plan with more than 11 meals per week, you may not be eligible for CalFresh. You can contact the county via the phone number provided in this letter. This includes documents like your ID, paystubs, or rent receipts. verifications to be evaluated for eligibility promptly. the nearest County Family Resource Center where you can apply in DPSS sends all important information via the mail. {ACL 20-135. limited to, Department of Motor Vehicles ID or drivers license, Any documents or collateral contacts which reasonably establish an applicants residency must be accepted. CalFresh will generally accept a sworn statement as a last resort if you cannot get the documents needed. letter or a current benefit check (example: SSA, unemployment, If you are planning on applying for CalFresh, we highly recommend coming to our Office Hours so we can confirm that you submit your application and verification documents correctly. Consumer credit reports cannot be used as the only means of verification. Bronze, Gold and Platinum plans also available, Coverage for children, adults and families. Counties must use Applicant IEVS to assist in resolving any potential discrepancies with what was reported on the application (SAWS 2) and/or in the interview. 273.2(f)(4)(i) and 273.2(f)(5).] ], Counties must request Applicant IEVS information at least 15 days prior to the redetermination interview. Are you on SSI? There are special rules for information that is unclear, which is information about a households circumstances from which the county cannot readily determine the impact on the households continued eligibility or benefit amount. [Id.]. In the [Year] Household Summary area, click on the View actions needed & alerts link. card for another benefit program. If the household responds within 10 days by providing sufficient information, the county must act accordingly to determine continuing eligibility. (i.e., those already on CalWORKs (TANF) or other public assistance programs)[MPP 63-301.7. [ACL 18-20.]. Well guide you step by step. Note that the user can apply the document to just one household member or they can choose multiple household members to apply to if applicable. Note that there must be refusal to provide the requested information to justify termination of benefits. Failure to provide information is not a basis for adverse action. You'll get a call from CalFresh in a couple of days to verify your situation. A households failure or refusal to respond to this notice justifies terminating benefits. endstream endobj 44 0 obj <>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text]>>/Subtype/Form/Type/XObject>>stream For example, CDSS has a contract with The Work Number to provide employment verification data. Find your county office contact. Need help buying more food for your family? identification. Apply in 10 minutes There Are 3 Easy Ways To Apply: Click Apply Online Call Call 1-877-847-3663 Come In Find Locations How CalFresh Can Help 273.2(f)(4)(i); MPP 63-300.5(h)(1).] periodic report, recertification or verbal statement. [ACL 20-48.] Make sure your worker knows your position is work-study. likely eligible to CalFresh, Submit a CalFresh application [Id. (Applicants who qualify for expedited services should expect to hear from the County within 3 business days). **Graduate students who have work-study eligibility will have a hyperlink to a PDF document on their financial aid notification (eFAN) -- the attachment is for graduate students not in the professional schools. Select my county instead Continue The CalFresh office may ask the household to verify the following: Any dependent care costs the household is claiming. Get the answers you need. See the Emotional Support Animal Policy below. As a parent, my priority is always my childrens needs and CalFresh helps meet that need. ], Residency can be shown through proof of rent or mortgage payments, utility expenses, and identity. If verification cannot be accomplished due to a lack of acceptable evidence, a collateral contact or other readily available documentary evidence should be used. [MPP 63-300.5(h)(1).]. Case workers should not disclose information supplied by the household. Click here for more information on how the end of COVID-19 flexibilities may affect you. Applications must include a description of the duties . Check here for what you can purchase with your CalFresh benefits. [Id.] Any documents which reasonably establish the applicants identity must be accepted, [Id. 273.2(c)(6), (f)(5)(ii). Providing the address of If you are approved for CalFresh, you will usually get two separate pieces of mail with: Just like a debit card, you will need your PIN number to use your EBT card. Watch our, You can complete a CalFresh application online. Additionally, lump sum payments such as fellowships or scholarships may be excluded. Below is a list of documents that may be needed when applying for CalFresh benefits. *LPIE is a college program that trains students for a job and may make you eligible for CalFresh. If an applicant does not designate a acceptable collateral contact, the case worker may select a collateral contact. ], 2023 Legal Services of Northern California, Legal Services of Northern California The form will help determine if you are likely eligible for CalFresh benefits. When certain verification methods are unavailable to the household, the county must use the best available information. CalFresh, also known as SNAP/EBT, is a long term food assistance program that awards eligible students up to $281 per month for groceries. Positive Recovery Stipend Program, Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities, General You can click the View option next to the document that was uploaded to be sure you uploaded the right document. If an applicant cannot get all the information together before the interview, they will have additional time to provide the missing information after the interview. benefits within 3 days). The. CalFresh application. If you need assistance in obtaining any of the required documentation to complete your application, let your CalFresh County worker know as soon as possible or reach out to the Basic Needs Center for support. Federal regulation defines refusal as the household must be able to cooperate, but clearly demonstrate that it will not take actions that it can take and that are required. a statement from your employer, Your award [MPP 20-006.543, ACL 17-41.] Interpretation services available in all languages. Here is a list ofthe, You miss the County call for your phone interview, The County never calls you for your scheduled interview, Want to notify your case worker about any steps you were asked to take, Have not received any paper mail in the past 30 days, Have questions about your CalFresh application. These discrepancies must be resolved prior to the beginning of a new certification period. However, the eligibility determination cannot be delayed pending receipt of Applicant IEVS if other information establishes eligibility. Virtual Office Hours via Zoom on Mondays, 10:00 am-2:00 pm, In-Person Office Hours on Thursdays, 1:00-5:00 pm in SAC B02. In these instances, if the applicant with the countys assistance has (1) made reasonable efforts to obtain verification; and (2) verification cannot be obtained; and (3) the applicants statement regarding residency is not questionable, the county must proceed with certification if the household is otherwise eligible. [MPP 63-401.5, 401.6. Graduates can apply anytime for CalFresh online. This should take about 10 minutes. Most CalFresh recipients are required to complete a Semi-Annual Report (SAR 7) once a year in order to keep getting CalFresh benefits. If you would like the UCSD CalFresh Team to receive an update on your case on your behalf please fill out our CalFresh Assistance Form on our website. Verification for physical or mental unfitness is required when the unfitness or disability is not evident to the county and can be provided by any medical health professional or the applicants case manager. I am not a US Citizen. CalFresh Info Line 1-877-847-3663. Counties cannot limit verification to any specific type of documentation. For more information, please visit this website. Verification can be provided by various methods including documentary evidence, electronic verification, collateral contact and client statement. As an overextended grad student, having one less thing to worry about has been such a relief. If approved, youll get an EBT card with money for groceries within 30 days. If you are more comfortable applying for CalFresh in-person but are unavailable to attend our on-campus office hours, you can visit the DPSS Rancho Park Office which is only about 3 miles away from campus! Except for homeless household, verification of residency must be provided by such households prior to their next certification. Covered California is dedicated to safeguarding the privacy and security of your personal information. Step I: Collect Verification Documents Collect all documents necessary from each category below before you start your online CalFresh application. If you have a phone number, please include it. We will have weekly office hours every Monday from 10:00 am-2:00 pm via Zoom and every Thursday from 1:00 pm - 5:00 pm in-person. The county cannot require anyone to reside in a permanent dwelling or have a fixed mailing address as a condition of eligibility.
