CDSS is issuing CalFresh benefits for February 2019 early between January 16 and January 20. This early issuance is required because, as a result of the federal government shutdown, there is no appropriation to fund the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) after January 20.
Counties must provide client notice as they would for a mass change. This includes county websites, posters, press and social media. There is no individual household noticing requirement. However, counties are encouraged to contact individual households as feasible using communication channels such as text messaging, email and phone messges.
Most clients will receive their benefits between January 16 and 20. However, some clients will receive benefits on their normal issuance date if they are eligible and federal reserve funds are available. These clients are 1) current clients who have a report due in January but the report is received and processed after the early issuance but before the end of January; 2) current clients who have a report due in January and whose eligibility is determined after the end of January; 3) News client determined eligible after the early issuance is completed and 4) New clients who apply on or after February 1. CDSS estimates that about $86 million in benefits is associated with cases which will not be completed by January 20 because reports have not been submitted or case processing is not completed.
Without a new appropriate for the United States Department of Agriculture either by resolution of the federal government shutdown or by enactment of separate legislation appropriating funds for the SNAP program, there is insufficient federal funding for March benefits. (All County Welfare Directors Letter, January 11, 2019.)