About this service
What is CalFresh?
CalFresh is a program that helps people buy food. It used to be called Food Stamps and is also known as SNAP.
If you qualify, you get money each month on an EBT card (like a debit card). You can use it to buy food like:
- Bread and cereal
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat and fish
You can use it at many grocery stores and farmers markets.
How to Apply for CalFresh in Marin County
You can apply anytime:
- Online at BenefitsCal.com
- By phone at 877-410-8817
- By mail or fax
- In person at a county office
Minimum requirements to file a CalFresh application:
The minimum information you need to provide to apply for CalFresh is:
- Your full name
- Your address
- A signature (you or another adult in your household)
Who this service is for
Who Can Get CalFresh?
You may qualify if you:
- Have low or no income
- Have limited money or resources
- Get General Relief or CalWORKs
- Get SSI/SSP
- Are a U.S. citizen or meet certain immigration rules
Expedited CalFresh
Some people may get Expedited CalFresh within 3 days.
You may qualify for Expedited CalFresh if:
- Your household earns less than $150 a month and has under $100 in resources, OR
- Your income and resources are less than your rent/mortgage and utilities, OR
- You are a migrant or seasonal farm worker with under $100 in resources
There is also Disaster CalFresh during emergencies.
Special Rules for Elderly and Disabled Households
- Income is calculated differently
- Resource limits may be higher
Details
Office Locations and Hours
You can visit an office to:
- Apply for benefits
- Ask questions
- Get a new EBT card
- Renew your benefits
120 N. Redwood Dr., San Rafael, CA 94903
- Monday through Friday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
3240 Kerner Blvd., San Rafael, CA 94901
- Monday through Friday 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
1 6th St., Point Reyes Station, CA 94956
- Monday through Friday 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM - 4:30 PM
All offices are closed 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Mail and Fax
You can send applications or documents by:
- Mail: P.O. Box 4160, San Rafael, CA 94913.
- Fax: 415-473-3554.
- English application form: Application for CalFresh Benefits (CF 285 - English)
- Spanish application form: Application for CalFresh Benefits (CF 285 - Spanish)
Call center and hours
Call 877-410-8817 to:
- Apply
- Ask questions
- Get help
Call Center Hours:
- Monday–Wednesday & Friday: 7:30 a.m.– 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m.– 4:00 p.m.
- Closed Thursday
Online BenefitsCal
You can:
- Apply for benefits
- Check your benefits
- Renew benefits
- Upload documents
- Report changes
- Message your worker
- Manage your benefits
What You May Need to Provide
The county may ask for:
- Photo ID
- Proof of income
- Proof you live in California
- Bank statements or other proof of money/assets
If more information is needed, the county will contact you. Check your mail and messages.
After You Apply
- You may need an interview
- The county may ask for more information
- You will get a notice telling you if you qualify
- If approved, you will get an EBT card to buy food.
How Much CalFresh Benefits Can a Household Receive?
The maximum amount of CalFresh you may receive depends on how many people are in your household.
Examples (starting Oct. 1, 2025):
- 1 person: $298/month
- 2 people: $546
- 3 people: $785
- 4 people: $994
Each extra person adds about $218
Resources (Money You Have)
Most households do not have to worry about resource limits.
If they do apply:
- Limit is $3,000
- $4,500 if someone is elderly or disabled
What you can purchase with CalFresh
You can buy most foods for people to eat.
You cannot buy:
- Hot prepared food (in most cases)
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Vitamins or medicine
- Pet food
- Non-food items like soap or shampoo
You can buy seeds and plants to grow food.
Lost or Replacement cards
You can request a new EBT card by:
- Visiting an office
- Using BenefitsCal.com
- Using the EBT Edge app
- Calling 877-410-8817.
Replace Lost Food
If food is lost due to fire, flood, or power outage (over 4 hours):
- Report it within 10 days
- You may get replacement benefits
Protect Your benefits
- Do not share your EBT card number or PIN.
- The county will never ask for this information.
- Report fraud by calling 877-410-8817, visiting an office, or going online to BenefitsCal.com.
Restaurant Meals Program
Some people can use CalFresh at restaurants.
You qualify if everyone in your household is:
- Homeless, OR
- Age 60 or older, OR
- Disabled
How it works:
- Find a restaurant that accepts EBT and is approved for the Restaurant Meals Program
- Use your EBT card to buy meals
- Keep your receipt
Additional information
Non-Discrimination Policy
- You can ask for extra help if you have a physical, mental, or emotional condition
- This help is called a “reasonable accommodation”
- Ask by calling 877-410-8817, visiting an office, or messaging message online at BenefitsCal.com
- The law protects people with disabilities and serious health conditions. You can learn more about your rights under California law by clicking the PUB 13 link in English or PUB 13 link in Spanish
Interpreter Services Available
Free interpreter services are available. Call us at 877-410-8817 for help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get CalFresh and other benefits, like CalWORKs, Social Security, or Unemployment?
Yes, many people do.
Can a single person qualify?
Yes.
Can people on SSI/SSP qualify?
Yes.
Can someone who is homeless qualify?
Yes.
Where Can I Use My CalFresh?
- Grocery stores
- Some online stores
- Farmers markets (some give extra free produce)
- Restaurants (if you qualify)
Can I complete my SAR 7 online?
Yes, you can submit your SAR 7 online at BenefitsCal.com. Watch this video if you need help with how to submit your SAR 7 report through BenefitsCal.com