Orange County, Calif. — California hasbegun issuing November CalFresh benefits, starting with recipients who normally receive their benefits between the first and seventh of the month. Recipients may already see their usual funds loaded onto their Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards. At this time, it is anticipated that the rest of November’s benefits will be issued on the regularly scheduled timeline.
In a statement released November 6, 2025, Gov. Newsom pointed to a court order for the immediate release of 100% of funding for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), known as CalFresh in California. Benefits for November were delayed due to the federal government shutdown.
The County of Orange Social Services Agency continues to monitor communications from the state and federal agencies responsible for CalFresh and SNAP. Future benefits could continue to be delayed during the federal government shutdown.
“While the situation remains fluid, it is a relief to know our most vulnerable residents will be able to put food on their tables, especially as the holidays near,” SSA Director An Tran said.
Orange County residents needing assistance with food can visit 211oc.org or call 2-1-1 to be connected to pantries in their area.
CalFresh recipients are urged to continue meeting mandatory reporting requirements, including submitting SAR7 semi-annual reports, recertifications and verification documents upon request on time to ensure their cases remain active as the shutdown continues.
Low-income residents are able to buy healthy food with the funds CalFresh loads onto EBT cards. In Orange County, more than 310,000 Orange County residents – mostly older adults and children – receive more than $60 million in benefits each month.
Residents can find additional information about the CalFresh benefits delay at https://www.ssa.ocgov.com/CalFreshDelay.