If you depend on CalFresh to help cover groceries each month, you’re probably already asking: “When will my September benefits hit my EBT card?”
Well, you’re in luck. California’s Department of Social Services (CDSS) has officially released the CalFresh September 2025 deposit schedule, and we’re here to break it all down in plain, no-fluff language—just the facts, guidance, and extra insights to help you thrive.
CalFresh September 2025 Deposit Schedule
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Deposit Schedule | September 1 – 10, 2025 |
| Determined By | Last digit of case number |
| Monthly Benefit | $291 per person on average |
| Who Uses CalFresh | Over 4.5 million Californians |
| EBT Balance Check | ebt.ca.gov or 1-877-328-9677 |
| Official Portal | cdss.ca.gov |
| Mobile App | EBT Edge (iOS & Android) |
| Extra Tools | SNAP Retailer Locator |
Staying on top of your CalFresh September 2025 deposit schedule ensures you and your family have food on the table, less stress in the kitchen, and more confidence managing your money. By understanding when and how your benefits arrive, checking your balance regularly, and taking advantage of programs like Market Match, you can stretch your budget and eat well—every month.
Stay informed. Shop smart. You’ve got this!
What Is CalFresh?
CalFresh is California’s name for SNAP, the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program. If you’ve heard of food stamps, this is it—modernized. CalFresh gives you monthly funds on an EBT card that works like a debit card. You use it to shop at grocery stores, farmers markets, and even online.
Over 4.5 million Californians rely on CalFresh every month. It’s not just for the unemployed—millions of working families, students, seniors, and veterans use it to make ends meet.
Timeline of Events: What Happens Next?
After the September benefits are loaded, here’s a look at what comes next for CalFresh recipients:
- September 2025: Benefits are deposited based on your case number’s last digit. This month’s funds will be available for you to use.
- October 2025: The new fiscal year begins. Keep an eye out for any announcements regarding cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) that might impact your monthly benefit amount.
- Ongoing: Remember to keep your contact information and household details up to date with your county office to ensure there are no interruptions to your benefits. You can do this through the BenefitsCal portal.
September 2025 CalFresh Deposit Dates
Your EBT deposit date depends on the last digit of your case number, NOT your Social Security Number.
CalFresh September 2025 Payment Schedule
| Last Digit of Case Number | Deposit Date |
|---|---|
| 1 | September 1 |
| 2 | September 2 |
| 3 | September 3 |
| 4 | September 4 |
| 5 | September 5 |
| 6 | September 6 |
| 7 | September 7 |
| 8 | September 8 |
| 9 | September 9 |
| 0 | September 10 |
Funds are usually available by midnight, but check your app or balance early in the morning to be sure.
How to Check Your CalFresh EBT Balance
- Phone: 1-877-328-9677
- Website: ebt.ca.gov
- App: EBT Edge (App Store / Google Play)
EBT Access Options
| Feature | EBT Card (Physical) | BenefitsCal App |
| How to check balance? | Check a store receipt, call the EBT customer service line, or at an ATM. | Instantly on your phone, anytime, anywhere. |
| Transaction History | Limited to receipts and phone call logs. | View up to two years of detailed transaction history. |
| Security Features | Protected by a PIN. Be cautious of “skimming” at card readers. | Can lock/unlock your card, block online transactions, and change PIN instantly. |
| Best For… | In-person shopping at grocery stores and farmers markets. | A convenient, secure, and modern way to manage your benefits on the go. |
New to CalFresh? Start Here.
Here’s how to get started if you’re applying for the first time:
How to Apply
- Visit BenefitsCal.com
- Create an account and fill out your application.
- Upload required documents (ID, proof of income, rent, etc.).
- Schedule an interview (phone or in person).
- Wait for approval (within 30 days max).
Emergency benefits may be available within 3 days if your income is extremely low.
What You Can Buy vs. What You Can’t
| EBT-Eligible Items | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Fruits & vegetables | Alcohol & tobacco |
| Bread & grains | Hot food at point-of-sale (unless in RMP) |
| Meat, fish, poultry | Vitamins & supplements |
| Dairy | Cleaning supplies & hygiene products |
| Snacks & drinks | Pet food |
| Seeds & plants | Non-food household items |
Pro Tips for First-Time Users
- Use weekly flyers to plan meals around sales.
- Use your EBT at farmers markets with Market Match (doubles your buying power!).
- Buy in bulk—especially staples like rice, beans, and pasta.
- Get store loyalty cards for extra savings.
- Always keep your receipts to track your balance.
Real Stories: How People Make It Work
“I’m a single dad working part-time. CalFresh helps me buy fresh fruit for my daughter, and I combine that with the school lunch program to stretch my budget. Every month, I know when the benefits hit, and I plan meals in advance so nothing gets wasted.”
— Luis R., Sacramento, CA
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing re-certification deadlines
- Not reporting income changes
- Throwing away notices from CDSS
- Letting benefits lapse due to inactivity
- Using your EBT card for ineligible purchases
If you’re unsure about something, always call customer service or visit your county CalFresh office before making assumptions.
For Diverse Households
- Halal & Kosher food can be bought at participating markets—ask local ethnic grocers if they accept EBT.
- Some cultural stores participate in EBT Market Match too.
- Vegetarian/Vegan diets? Use your EBT to get bulk grains, legumes, tofu, and fresh produce.
Tips & Mistakes to Avoid
Here are some quick tips to help you make the most of your CalFresh benefits:
Do:
- Check your balance regularly using the BenefitsCal app or by calling the customer service line.
- Keep your PIN a secret. Never share it with anyone.
- Report any changes in your income or household size to your county office to avoid benefit interruptions.
Don’t:
- Fall for scams. Your county or the state will never call or text you asking for your PIN or EBT card number.
- Discard your receipts. They show your remaining balance and can help you track your spending.
- Forget to recertify. Your benefits are not permanent. You’ll need to re-apply periodically to prove continued eligibility.
Real-World Case Study or Mini Example
Maria, a single mother of two in Los Angeles, just received her September CalFresh deposit. She uses the BenefitsCal app to check her balance before heading to the grocery store. This month, she knows she has enough to stock up on healthy school lunch supplies and fresh produce, which she couldn’t afford on her tight budget before. By checking the deposit schedule, she can confidently plan her shopping trips around her monthly benefits.
FAQs
1. Can I use CalFresh at restaurants?
Only if you qualify under the Restaurant Meals Program (RMP). Seniors, disabled folks, and homeless individuals can use EBT at approved restaurants in select counties.
2. Do CalFresh benefits roll over?
Yes! Unused funds stay on your card for up to 12 months. After that, they expire.
3. What happens if I move counties?
You’ll need to update your info and may get a new case number.
4. Can I lose my benefits if I make more money?
Possibly. You’re required to report income changes. If you earn above the limit, you may lose or reduce benefits.
