San Bernardino County: Federal Shutdown Could Delay CalFresh Benefits in November 2025
SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY, Calif. (VVNG.com) — CalFresh recipients in San Bernardino County could see a delay in their benefits beginning in November 2025 due to the ongoing federal government shutdown, according to a written statement from San Bernardino County.
Funding for CalFresh benefits is only guaranteed through October 2025. If the shutdown continues, the federal government’s failure to provide additional funding will prevent November benefits from being issued on time.
“The federal government is shut down. Until President Trump and Congress reopen the government, millions of Californians receiving CalFresh benefits may have their benefits impacted,” the County stated in a Frequently Asked Questions document. “Funding is available for benefits for the month of October. However, CalFresh benefits will be delayed in November.”
CalFresh recipients can continue to use their existing EBT card balances as usual during the shutdown. Those due to submit a SAR 7 form or renew benefits in November are urged to complete and send in all required documentation on time. However, the County warned that “there may be processing delays due to the continued federal government shutdown.”
Applications for new CalFresh benefits will still be accepted. Residents may apply online at www.benefitscal.com, by phone at 1-877-847-3663, or in person at a local county social services office.
County offices remain open during the shutdown, and staff are available to assist. Additional food assistance may be available through local food banks. To find resources in your area, visit www.cafoodbanks.org/find-food.
According to the County, requesting a state hearing will not result in the restoration of CalFresh benefits during the shutdown, as “judges are unable to start or restart November benefits at this time.”
At this time, CalWORKs and Medi-Cal benefits are not expected to be impacted. However, the County noted that a continued federal shutdown could put December CalWORKs benefits at risk.
For ongoing updates, residents are encouraged to visit wp.sbcounty.gov/tad or call the Transitional Assistance Department’s Customer Service Center at 877-410-8829.
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