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How To Apply

CalFresh Application Process

Step 1: Contact the UCSC CalFresh Outreach Program Team and take the application pre-screener. If you are not sure who your CalFresh Outreach Team is, email calfresh@ucsc.edu.

Step 2: If you think you may be eligible, complete and submit an online application with your CalFresh Outreach Team or apply on your own Although the application is online, we encourage you to apply with the help of your CalFresh Outreach Team because they are very familiar with the questions and will likely get you through the application faster. 

  • Click here to make an appointment with a member of the ClaFresh Outreach Team for application assistance
  • If you choose to fill out an application on your own without the help of our team, here is a video tutorial for the CalFresh application. The video contains tips and tricks to make sure you fill out each field correctly.

Step 3: Once the application is received by the county, your 30-day application period begins.

Step 4: During this 30-day period, you will need to do the following:

  • Complete an interview with your county office by phone or in person
    • The county office will either call or mail you a date and time for your interview
  • Let your CalFresh Outreach Team know if you have not heard from the county within 7 days of applying

Step 5: You will then be required to provide verification documents to your county office. This must also be completed during the 30-day period. Your application will not be approved until you submit verification documents that meet county requirements. Examples of verification documentation include:

  • Copy of government issued ID
  • Proof of residential address
  • Paystubs
  • Financial aid award letter
  • Class schedule
  • For Graduate Students:
    • Proof of enrollment in your graduate program
    • Email verification of program approval

Step 6: After approval, you will be required to do the following in order to keep your CalFresh benefits:

  • Complete the SAR 7 Eligibility Report 6 months after your initial application is approved
    • The county will let you know when this is due
  • Complete a Recertification Application and be interviewed before the end of your certification period
    • The county will let you know when this is due and will send you a letter confirming the time and date of your interview. Most interviews will be conducted over the phone.

Don't worry! You are not alone.

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