New CalFresh income limits start on October 1, 2026. They run through September 30, 2027. This is called Fiscal Year (FY) 2027.
These limits come from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). California uses the same standards as 47 other states and Washington, D.C. The USDA released this guidance on August 21, 2026.
A single-person household can now earn up to $1,729 a month (gross) and still qualify. A family of four can earn up to $3,575 a month (gross). Net income limits are lower. We break down every household size below.
Quick Summary
- New CalFresh income limits start October 1, 2026 and run through September 30, 2027
- A single-person household’s gross income limit is $1,729 a month
- A family of four’s gross income limit is $3,575 a month
- Net income limit for a family of four is $2,750 a month
- Maximum monthly CalFresh benefit for a family of four is $1,023
- These are federal standards; California has not yet published a separate state chart for FY 2027
What Is CalFresh?
CalFresh is California’s name for SNAP. SNAP stands for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. It helps low-income households buy food.
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) runs the program. Your county office handles applications. Approved households get an EBT card. They use it like a debit card at grocery stores.
When Do the New Limits Start?
The FY 2027 limits begin October 1, 2026. They stay in place until September 30, 2027.
USDA adjusts these numbers every year. The change is called a Cost-of-Living Adjustment, or COLA. It accounts for rising prices.
FY 2027 CalFresh Income Limits
California is covered under USDA’s “48 States and D.C.” table. There are three separate income tests. Which one applies depends on your household.
Net Monthly Income Limits
Most households must stay under the net income limit. Net income means your income after certain deductions.
| Household Size | Net Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,330 |
| 2 | $1,804 |
| 3 | $2,277 |
| 4 | $2,750 |
| 5 | $3,224 |
| 6 | $3,697 |
| 7 | $4,170 |
| 8 | $4,644 |
| Each additional person | +$474 |
Gross Monthly Income Limits
Most households must also stay under the gross income limit. Gross income means your income before deductions.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $1,729 |
| 2 | $2,345 |
| 3 | $2,960 |
| 4 | $3,575 |
| 5 | $4,191 |
| 6 | $4,806 |
| 7 | $5,421 |
| 8 | $6,037 |
| Each additional person | +$616 |
Gross Income Limits for Elderly or Disabled Households
Some households have a member who is elderly or disabled. These households may be tested under a higher gross income limit instead.
| Household Size | Gross Monthly Income Limit |
|---|---|
| 1 | $2,195 |
| 2 | $2,976 |
| 3 | $3,757 |
| 4 | $4,538 |
| 5 | $5,319 |
| 6 | $6,100 |
| 7 | $6,881 |
| 8 | $7,662 |
| Each additional person | +$781 |
A Note on California-Specific Numbers
These tables come straight from USDA’s federal FY 2027 guidance. As of September 19, 2026, CDSS had not published its own FY 2027 CalFresh income-limit chart or county bulletin.
This matters. Your actual CalFresh eligibility depends on more than income. It also depends on deductions, household makeup, and immigration status rules. The federal numbers above are a starting point, not a full eligibility test.
Other Numbers That Affect Your Benefits
Income limits are only part of the picture. Deductions and allotment caps also shape your final benefit amount.
Standard Deduction:
| Household Size | Standard Deduction |
|---|---|
| 1–3 | $217 |
| 4 | $229 |
| 5 | $268 |
| 6+ | $308 |
Shelter Deductions: The maximum excess shelter deduction is $769. The maximum homeless shelter deduction is $205.66.
Asset Limits: Most households face a $3,000 asset limit. Households with a member age 60+ or disabled face a $4,750 limit. Not every CalFresh household is subject to an asset test.
Maximum Monthly Allotments:
| Household Size | Maximum Monthly Allotment |
|---|---|
| 1 | $306 |
| 2 | $562 |
| 3 | $808 |
| 4 | $1,023 |
| 8 | $1,841 |
Recent CalFresh Policy Changes in California
Several rules changed under H.R. 1, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act. CDSS confirms these changes affect eligibility and benefit amounts for some households.
Utility deduction changes (November 1, 2025): Households without a member over 60 or with a disability now need separate heating or cooling costs to claim the Standard Utility Allowance.
Noncitizen eligibility changes (April 1, 2026): Many lawfully present immigrants no longer qualify for CalFresh under the new federal rules.
Work requirements (June 1, 2026): More adults ages 18–64 must meet work or community engagement requirements to keep their benefits.
How to Apply for CalFresh in California
- Gather your documents. You’ll need ID, Social Security numbers, proof of income, and proof of expenses like rent.
- Apply online, by phone, or in person. Use BenefitsCal or contact your county social services office.
- Complete an interview. Every household must complete an interview, usually by phone.
- Wait for your decision. Counties generally process applications within 30 days.
- Recertify each year. Most households must renew their eligibility annually.
For a full walkthrough, see our guide: [How to Apply for CalFresh in California: Step-by-Step].
FAQ
What are the CalFresh income limits for 2027?
A one-person household’s gross limit is $1,729 a month. A family of four’s gross limit is $3,575. Net limits are lower and vary by household size.
When do the new CalFresh income limits start?
The FY 2027 limits take effect October 1, 2026. They apply through September 30, 2027.
Does California use different income limits than the federal government?
No. California follows USDA’s standard “48 States and D.C.” limits. No separate CDSS income chart has been published for FY 2027 as of this writing.
What if my household has an elderly or disabled member?
Your household may qualify under a higher gross income limit — up to $2,195 for one person, rising with household size.
How do the new work requirements affect me?
Starting June 1, 2026, more adults ages 18–64 must meet work or community engagement rules to keep benefits. Some groups are exempt.
How do I apply for CalFresh in California?
Apply online through BenefitsCal, by phone, or at your county social services office. You’ll complete an interview before approval.
Ready to check your eligibility? Visit BenefitsCal.com or contact your county social services office to apply for CalFresh today.
Sources: USDA Food and Nutrition Service, SNAP Fiscal Year 2027 Cost-of-Living Adjustments · California Department of Social Services, H.R. 1 & CalFresh FAQ · Article last updated September 19, 2026.
