California has begun implementing new requirements for some people receiving CalFresh, the state’s food assistance program, bringing changes that could affect how certain adults qualify for and continue receiving benefits.
The changes took effect June 1, 2026, but their effects are now becoming more apparent as counties work with recipients under the updated rules. Importantly, the new requirements do not apply to everyone who receives CalFresh. For people who are subject to them, qualifying work, education, training or community activities can now play a role in keeping their benefits.
Here’s what California recipients should know about the changes.
What is changing with CalFresh?
The new requirements stem from changes to the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, known as SNAP nationally and CalFresh in California. Beginning June 1, some CalFresh recipients between the ages of 18 and 64 became subject to updated work and community-engagement requirements.
The California Department of Social Services says people who are subject to the rules must participate in qualifying activities for 20 hours per week, or an average of 80 hours per month. That doesn’t necessarily mean holding a conventional 20-hour-a-week job. Qualifying activities can include:
- Paid employment
- Volunteer work or community service
- Job training or work programs
- Education
- Workfare
- A combination of qualifying activities
This means someone who doesn’t have a traditional job may still be able to meet the requirement through other eligible activities.
Who is subject to the new requirements?
The rules generally concern certain adults ages 18 through 64 who don’t qualify for one of the exemptions. Because there are several exemptions, simply being between 18 and 64 does not automatically mean someone has to meet the new requirements. California has exemptions for certain people based on factors including age, pregnancy, disability, caregiving responsibilities and other circumstances defined under the program’s rules.
Because eligibility can depend on a person’s individual circumstances, the California Department of Social Services recommends using its CalFresh Work and Community Engagement Requirements Pre-Screening Tool or contacting the county administering the person’s case.
What happens if someone doesn’t meet the requirement?
There is an important time limit associated with the rules. For people who are subject to the work and community-engagement requirements, failing to meet them can limit CalFresh benefits to three months within a 36-month period. This isn’t a rule saying that every person receiving CalFresh will automatically lose their benefits after three months. The three-month limit applies to people who are subject to the requirements and do not meet them or qualify for an exemption. Aditionally, the three months also do not necessarily have to occur consecutively.
Anyone unsure whether the new requirements apply to them can use California’s CalFresh pre-screening tool or contact their county social services agency to review their individual situation before making changes to their benefits.
