California is a state of contrasts—home to the world’s tallest living trees and the scorching Death Valley, it also boasts both the highest and lowest points in the U.S. While the state drives the nation’s largest economy, it is also notorious for its sky-high cost of living.
To ease this financial burden, eligible residents can expect benefit checks of up to $1,756 tomorrow through a state program. Here’s a complete guide on who qualifies, how much they can receive, and why the cost of living is such a challenge in California.
Why California Faces a High Cost of Living
Across the U.S., living expenses are rising. On average, a single adult spends $2,924 per month, while a family of four spends about $7,101, including rent. However, in California, the burden is far heavier.
- According to Apartment List, California’s cost of living is 145% higher than the national average.
- Housing is the biggest factor, with home prices nearly double the U.S. average.
- Since the pandemic, some cities have seen rents increase by up to 40%.
As a result, almost one-third of Californians live in poverty or near-poverty conditions. To help struggling families, the state offers CalFresh benefits in addition to federal Social Security payments.
Who Will Receive Payments Tomorrow?
Tomorrow, alongside the SSA’s first Wednesday Social Security distribution, one group of Californians will also receive CalFresh benefits.
- CalFresh, California’s version of the federal SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), helps low-income households purchase food essentials.
- Benefits can be used to buy fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy, grains, breads, and non-alcoholic drinks.
- Payments are distributed during the first 10 days of each month, depending on case number.
On September 10, 2025, citizens with case numbers ending in 0 will receive their benefits.
Maximum Benefit Amounts by Household Size
Not all families will receive the maximum $1,756. Payments depend on household size and net income after deductions, with the county welfare department calculating benefits by subtracting 30% of net income from the maximum amount allowed.
Household Size | Maximum Monthly Benefit |
---|---|
1 Person | $292 |
2 People | $536 |
3 People | $768 |
4 People | $975 |
5 People | $1,158 |
6 People | $1,390 |
7 People | $1,536 |
8 People | $1,756 |
9+ People | +$220 per additional member |
So tomorrow, EBT cards will be loaded for the last group of CalFresh beneficiaries in September.
California may be the land of opportunity, but its expensive housing market and high cost of living have pushed many into financial hardship. Programs like CalFresh provide critical support, ensuring families can afford food while also boosting local economies through spending.
For eligible households with case numbers ending in 0, tomorrow’s payments will make a meaningful difference—especially when combined with Social Security benefits arriving on the same day.
FAQs
The maximum benefit is $1,756 for a household of 8, with an additional $220 for each extra member.
Households with case numbers ending in 0 will receive their September payments tomorrow.
Yes, but with restrictions. Eligible items include fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, meats, and beverages—but not alcohol or hot prepared meals.