Categorical Eligibility for CalFresh
California implements “Categorical Eligibility,” which means that most households can have gross monthly incomes up to 200% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and their resources are not counted. These households must still meet the net monthly income standards in order to qualify for CalFresh.
Some households are excluded from Categorical Eligibility and must pass the 130% gross income test and their resources are counted:
Any household member disqualified for an intentional program violation, or
A head of household who does not comply with work requirements. (CA has a time limit waiver through 01/31/2026.)
1-2 person households with a member who is age 60+ and/or who has disability do not have a gross monthly income limit and, in some cases, can qualify for $24 even if they do not meet the net monthly income test. Households with 3+ people must still meet the gross and net income standards.
If a household does not qualify for Categorical Eligibility, they must meet the resource limits.
The resource limit for households without a member who is age 60+ and/or who has a disability is $3,000.
The resource limit for households with a member who is age 60+ and/or who has a disability is $4,500. This is also the threshold for having to report lottery or gambling winnings.
Resources: