California’s CalFresh program, the state version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), continues to provide vital monthly food assistance for millions of residents. With December underway, beneficiaries can now check their official payment dates, maximum benefit levels, and application options for the final month of 2025.
CalFresh benefits are delivered through the Golden State Advantage EBT card, which functions like a standard debit card and can be used at grocery stores, farmers markets and participating restaurants across California. The card is issued once a family’s or individual’s application is approved.
How the Golden State Advantage EBT Card Works
Once approved for CalFresh, households receive a Golden State Advantage card by mail. Each month, the state loads benefits onto the card, which can be used anywhere the EBT sign is displayed. In addition to food benefits, some households also receive cash assistance using the same card.
Applicants can apply for CalFresh in several ways. The fastest method is online through GetCalFresh.org, which was created specifically for food assistance applications. Another digital option is BenefitsCal.com, which allows residents to apply for CalFresh, Medi-Cal and CalWORKS at the same time. Applications are also accepted by phone or in person at county offices. Many food pantries throughout the state offer free support with the application process for those who need help.
December 2025 CalFresh Deposit Schedule
CalFresh benefits for December 2025 will be deposited during the first ten days of the month. The exact date depends on the last digit of the household’s case number.
Case number ending in 1: December 1
Case number ending in 2: December 2
Case number ending in 3: December 3
Case number ending in 4: December 4
Case number ending in 5: December 5
Case number ending in 6: December 6
Case number ending in 7: December 7
Case number ending in 8: December 8
Case number ending in 9: December 9
Case number ending in 0: December 10
These dates come directly from the statewide CalFresh calendar and will not change for December, as holidays and weekends do not affect this month’s distribution.
Maximum CalFresh Benefit Amounts for December 2025
The maximum monthly CalFresh benefit levels for December 2025 remain the same as the cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) that took effect on October 1, 2025. These updated standards apply through September 2026. Households with zero net income qualify for the full amounts shown below.
Household size and maximum monthly amount:
1 person: $298
2 people: $546
3 people: $785
4 people: $994
5 people: $1,183
6 people: $1,421
7 people: $1,571
8 people: $1,789
Each additional person: +$218
These payment amounts follow federal rules from the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service and the California Department of Social Services. Families with income will receive a reduced amount based on established benefit calculations. Households can verify their eligibility and estimated payment through BenefitsCal.com or by calling 1-877-847-3663.
Additional Support Through CalWORKS
California also offers CalWORKS, a program designed for families with children under 18. Unlike CalFresh, CalWORKS provides cash assistance that can be used for essential expenses including housing, utilities, transportation, clothing and other basic needs. Many households receive both CalFresh and CalWORKS to meet food and financial needs.
