If you are one of the CalFresh beneficiaries in the United States, it is important that you know how to maintain these monthly economic benefits. You should go through the recertification process without hesitation. A new application must be submitted before the 15th of the month in which the current period ends.
The general rule for California families is a 12-month certification period. However, some elderly and disabled people have double the time on their side. However, households in which only older and/or disabled members live and who have no earned income are certified for 36 months.
Under the CalFresh program, counties cannot waive or extend the recertification deadline for workload or budget reasons. Specifically, the CalFresh office you belong to will send you a notification before your certified period expires. The notification will tell you when you should submit your recertification application and the consequences if you do not do so on time.
Beware of delays!
It is important that you always attend your recertification appointment. Failure to do so may result in delays or even loss of your CalFresh benefits. Currently, all counties in California are required to waive the in-person interview unless you choose to conduct it that way.
It is possible to opt for an “on-demand” interview. This means you can do this any time in the next two weeks. In the meantime, you should know that there are several exceptions to this. For example, recertification interviews are not required for elderly or disabled-only households that do not receive CalWORKs or general assistance and have no earned income.
If you need an interview, the process is simple. You must only follow the procedures set forth in MPP § 63-300.45. It is important that you provide proof of your eligibility during the recertification process.
These include, for example, pay slips, rental receipts and utility bills. Don’t forget to collect all necessary documents and submit them on time to avoid delays or complications.