As of June 1, 2026, new federal work requirements for CalFresh have taken effect and may impact certain individuals between the ages of 18 and 64, unless they qualify for an exemption. Under the new rules, some customers must work, participate in training, or complete volunteer or community service hours each month to maintain their CalFresh benefits.
Here are some helpful links and resources:
For more about the work requirements or to see if you qualify for an exemption, click here: https://dpss.lacounty.gov/en/food/calfresh/work-rules.html or https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/calfresh/abawd
If you need help meeting the work requirements, there are multiple ways to do so. Learn more about how to participate in Workfare, community service or volunteer work, CalFresh Employment and Training, or a Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program: https://dpss.lacounty.gov/en/jobs/wr.html
The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) has an online CalFresh pre-screening tool and recorded webinars here: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/calfresh/abawd/resources
If you missed the DPSS CalFresh Changes Due to H.R. 1 webinar, you can watch a recording here:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8JNaiP97i5M