Application Process

Step 1: Complete the Application Process

Create an account and apply through the BenefitsCal portal. As a UCSD student, using our unique URL helps us track your application!

Want to apply on your own? Use a phone, laptop, or tablet and be sure to watch the CalFresh Step-by-Step YouTube video and gather your documents first.

APPLY ON YOUR OWN

Need help applying? Fill out our assistance form!

CALFRESH ASSISTANCE FORM

**Need extra assistance? Schedule a virtual appointment with one of our team members!

Step 2: Upload Verification Documents

Required documents can be submitted through:

Benefitscal.com
- Upload them from computer or from smartphone
Mail or County’s Drop-off Box

Need help finding your documents? Watch the video below or refer to this document for assistance!

Step 3: After Submitting an Application

Phone Interview

The eligibility interview will take about 30 minutes. The county call will be from a blocked number, please make sure to answer. A worker will ask you about your household, income, expenses, and other eligibility requirements.

Don't Miss the Call

Missed the call? No worries! You can reschedule your CalFresh interview by calling the San Diego County office at 833-246-6948. For updates on your case (5–10 days after applying), contact a CalFresh Assistant.

Check Your Physical Mail

Check your physical mail for any updates, status or EBT card. San Diego County will provide you with a list of documents to submit within 30 days from the date that you submitted your application to verify your eligibility.

Step 4: Receiving Benefits

If you are approved for CalFresh you will receive an approval letter.

Note: When you receive expedited services, you will receive an approval letter with pending verification. You MUST submit your pending verification forms within the next 10 business days to receive benefits the following month.

Step 5: Maintaining Benefits

Semi-annual Report (SAR7) Eligibility Report

The Semi-Annual Report (SAR7) is required for updating the county after having CalFresh for 6 months. It asks for any changes that have happened within the time you received CalFresh. There is a paper version of the SAR7, however we recommend filling it out online at this link.

*Note: You must fill out a SAR7 every 6 months to continue your CalFresh benefits. If a SAR7 is not completed, your CalFresh benefits may be canceled.

Annual Recertification

You will need to fill out a Recertification for CalFresh Benefits form annually, and you are able to upload it via this link. If you need help with this process, please fill out our CalFresh Assistance Form on our website.

Student Testimonial

"Tremendously. As a student, not having the worry of whether I would have to spare meals for the week, let alone the day itself, was one that extremely helped in in the long term regarding food security"
-CalFresh Student Testimony