CalFresh Interview

Typically CalFresh (CF) interviews are conducted over the telephone as face-to-face interviews are no longer required. Clients may request a face-to-face interview if needed. The head of household is usually the case holder however, any adult member of the aided household can complete the interview process.

After the interview, the CalFresh office will send a notice. If your household does not qualify for CalFresh benefits, the notice will explain why. If your household does qualify, the notice will explain how much the CalFresh benefit will be for your household. It will also explain how many months you can receive CalFresh benefits (certification period) before re-evaluation of eligibility is required. A letter will be sent to your last known address to advise you of your scheduled telephone re-evaluation.

What should I have for my interview?

• Identification for each adult in the household (driver’s license, state ID card, passport, it does not need to be a picture ID);
• Citizenship verification for each applicant;
• Immigration Status for each applicant, if applicable;
• Sponsored noncitizen information, if applicable;
• Social Security Numbers for each applicant, with exception of newborns (or verification that you have applied for one);
• Proof of income for all persons applying for benefits;
• Proof of household expenses: rent, mortgage, utilities, wood, etc.;
• Certain medical expense may also be used for deductions;
• Dependent Care Expense; receipts or other proof of payment;
• Child Support Payments; court order and receipts, if applicable.
• Homeless individuals need to demonstrate that they are currently county residents.

For Expedited Service, only identification and social security number are required for the first months benefit and other verifications can be postponed. The second month of benefits cannot be granted until the postponed verification is provided.