UPDATE — Nov. 7, 2025:
Full November SNAP/CalFresh benefits have begun posting to the EBT cards of Monterey County residents, according to the County of Monterey Department of Social Services on Friday.
“The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) is telling us that California has initiated the distribution of full November CalFresh benefits,” said Maia Carroll, the county’s public information officer. “The state took this action in response to the court’s ruling in the Rhode Island litigation, which determined that the Trump administration should fully fund the SNAP program for November by today.”
CDSS indicated that recipients who would normally receive their benefits between Nov. 1-7 are expected to see funds available Friday, though processing times may vary. Those scheduled to receive benefits Nov. 8-10 are anticipated to have them available as normal.
Residents can check their online CalFresh accounts to confirm whether their benefits have been posted.
Carroll noted that “this remains an evolving situation,” and the county will continue sharing updates as they become available.
ORIGINAL STORY:
MONTEREY COUNTY — The County of Monterey announced Thursday that partial Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP/CalFresh) benefits are expected to be issued next week, following federal authorization to release a portion of the funds.
“The Federal government has authorized partial SNAP benefits be issued and the State is working to begin issuing partial CalFresh benefits some time next week — the week of November 10, 2025,” said Maia Carroll, the county’s public information officer.
The County advised SNAP/CalFresh recipients to check for updates as more information becomes available. Residents with questions about their benefits or in need of food resources can contact 211 or the County of Monterey Department of Social Services at 877-410-8823. In-person assistance is also available at county offices in King City (116 Broadway St.), Seaside (1281 Broadway Ave.) and Salinas (1000 S. Main St., Suite 216).
To help ensure access to food during the delay, the County of Monterey has pledged $150,000 to support local food banks. The one-time allocation is intended to assist community members who rely on CalFresh benefits.
“The County is encouraging partner jurisdictions to consider joining us and give if they can,” Carroll said.
The Department of Social Services continues to encourage eligible residents to apply for CalFresh despite the current disruptions. Applications typically rise in late fall and winter as seasonal workers in agriculture and hospitality face reduced hours or layoffs, but the county has seen a recent decline in applications.
Of the approximately 51,000 people in Monterey County receiving CalFresh benefits, 29,000 are children. Many beneficiaries are employed but still depend on the program to meet food needs, according to county officials.
