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.

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