CalFresh beneficiaries in California are now subject to a revised set of federal eligibility rules, following the implementation of changes introduced in mid-2025. These updates apply to a wide range of recipients and reflect shifting federal priorities in food assistance policy. The adjustments result from two major legislative acts passed in recent years, both aimed at modifying the conditions under which aid is distributed.
Although full enforcement will occur over time, the policy shift already affects how the state administers CalFresh benefits. Additional restrictions related to work, exemptions, and documentation are expected to impact program access across multiple population groups.
CalFresh Eligibility Now Tied to Stricter Work Requirements
One of the most sweeping changes applies to a group labeled Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). Previously, ABAWDs between the ages of 18 and 49 were limited to receiving CalFresh benefits for just three months in any 36-month period, unless they worked at least 80 hours per month or participated in approved employment or training programs. The FRA gradually extended that age limit to 54 beginning October 1, 2024.
Under the newly enacted OBBB, the scope has widened again: ABAWDs now include individuals between 18 and 64 years old. This significantly increases the number of recipients who must meet mandatory work requirements. Those who cannot comply face strict time limits on receiving benefits unless they qualify for an exemption.
While some temporary exemptions were introduced under the FRA—benefiting veterans, unhoused individuals, and former foster youth under 25—the OBBB ends these protections in October 2030. That means these groups will soon have to comply with the same rules as other ABAWDs.
Exemptions Narrowed, Native American Protections Expanded
The OBBB introduces new exemptions specifically for Native American communities, but they are limited to urban Native Americans and Native Californians from federally recognized tribes. Documentation will be required to prove eligibility, and the process may pose new barriers to enrollment.
By contrast, previously broader exemptions for parents or caregivers have been restricted. Before, caretakers of children under 18 were exempt from work requirements. That threshold has now been lowered to children under 14, leaving many families with older teens at risk of losing support.
At the same time, the law makes it more difficult for non-citizen households to qualify for benefits. In particular, legal immigrants who filed financial sponsorships may now face tighter scrutiny. Mixed-status families are also expected to experience greater administrative hurdles.
These policy adjustments, according to reporting from futbolete, could result in large groups being removed from the CalFresh system despite meeting basic income thresholds.
Broader Impact Includes Benefit Caps and Plan Reviews
Beyond work and immigration status, the OBBB also introduces several systemic shifts to the structure of CalFresh benefits. The law limits assistance to households with no more than 18 members, regardless of income level, directly impacting multi-generational or extended families.
Another key provision orders a review of the Thrifty Food Plan, which is used to calculate benefit levels. That review may lead to reduced monthly allotments if cost assumptions are revised downward.
Additionally, renewal of CalFresh benefits is expected to become more burdensome. The new rules require detailed proof of work hours and participation in employment programs, which could lead to delays or denials for those unable to verify in time. Although many of these measures took effect immediately after the law’s passage, some work-related components may be phased in gradually through January 2027.
A temporary USDA waiver secured by California delays enforcement of the ABAWD time-limit rules until January 31, 2026. This means, until then, individuals in California can still access CalFresh benefits without fulfilling the 80-hour monthly work rule—provided they meet all other eligibility criteria.
With over 5.5 million recipients statewide, the stakes are high. Advocates warn that as many as 97% of households currently receiving CalFresh benefits could see their aid cut or eliminated under the new rules. For millions of vulnerable residents, including veterans, older adults, and working poor families, staying enrolled in the program may soon depend not only on income—but on employment, documentation, and timing.
