Changes to CalFresh Benefits Take Effect, Thousands Facing Cuts

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Changes to CalFresh eligibility affecting certain non-citizens will take effect on April 1, 2026, potentially impacting thousands of recipients in San Diego County. The county Health and Human Services Agency said the changes stem from federal policy updates and will make some non-citizens ineligible for food assistance benefits, including certain asylees, refugees, parolees, and victims of trafficking.

Why it matters

The changes to CalFresh eligibility will significantly impact vulnerable populations in San Diego County, including refugees and asylum seekers, who rely on the food assistance program to meet their basic needs. This policy shift raises concerns about food insecurity and the ability of these non-citizens to access essential resources.

The details

Under the new federal policy, non-citizens already enrolled in CalFresh, including asylees and refugees, will have their eligibility reviewed at their next renewal. County officials are urging recipients to submit renewal paperwork on time, keep their contact information updated, and respond promptly to any requests for documentation to ensure their eligibility can be reviewed. Additional changes, such as expanded work requirements for certain adults without dependents and reduced exemptions for some groups, are expected to take effect on June 1.

• The changes to CalFresh eligibility will take effect on April 1, 2026.
• Additional changes tied to the federal law are expected to take effect on June 1, 2026.

What’s next

County officials are urging CalFresh recipients to stay informed and responsive to any requests for documentation to ensure their eligibility can be reviewed during the renewal process.