October is the first month some CalFresh recipients could lose their benefits for not meeting new federal work requirements, the San Diego Count Communication Center reports.
Since June, certain adults must complete at least 20 hours per week, or 80 hours per month, of work, volunteer service or education activities to stay eligible.
Recipients receive three months of benefits at the start of their renewal period to give them time to get connected with qualifying activities.
About 1,700 County residents are at risk of losing their benefits Oct. 1 if they don’t respond to the County by the end of September with proof they met the requirements or qualify for an exemption.
If someone misses the deadline, they can reapply. To regain benefits, they must complete 30 consecutive days of qualifying activities. They will be reviewed annually after that.
Activities that count toward Work Requirements:
- Work activities, like a job or self-employment
- Community service or volunteer work
- Job training, including the CalFresh Employment & Training (CFET) program
- Education
- Any combination of these activities
County staff can help residents identify qualifying activities and connect them with job, training and education opportunities.
Volunteer time counts, including helping at food banks, schools or places of worship. The County also offers an optional volunteer hours form to make reporting easier.
For help, call the Access Customer Service Call Center 1-866-262-9881. Customers should also keep their contact information current online at BenefitsCal.com to avoid missing key updates.
