Disaster CalFresh
Disaster CalFresh, also called D-CalFresh or D-SNAP, provides short-term food benefits after natural disasters, such as fires, floods, or earthquakes.
This benefit is only available for a limited time after certain officially declared disasters. If you already get CalFresh, you are not eligible, but you can get replacement benefits depending on your situation.
- Who may qualify
You may qualify if you lived or worked in an affected area when the disaster happened and the disaster caused you to lose money. This may include:
- Damage to your home or belongings
- Temporary housing or evacuation costs
- Lost income
- Other disaster-related expenses
The rules and application dates depend on the disaster.
- What can you get?
If you qualify, you may receive up to 1 month of food benefits, or up to $306 per person in your household.
You can apply even if you do not have a valid immigration status because Disaster CalFresh is not considered a public benefit.
- How to apply
How you apply may depend on the disaster and your county. Confirm with your county that applications are open before you begin.
Get the application
Download the D-SNAP form. You may also be able to get a paper application from your county office.
Complete the application
Complete the application online, or print it and fill it out by hand. Follow instructions from your county about the information or documents you need.
Submit the application
Upload your application through BenefitsCal.
You may also send it to your county office by mail or fax. Or you can complete your application in person.
If you already receive CalFresh
If you already receive CalFresh, you generally cannot receive Disaster CalFresh. However, you may qualify for replacement benefits if food you bought with CalFresh was lost or destroyed in the disaster. Contact your county to learn what is available.
Frequently asked questions
What if I had to move to another county?
You may still be able to apply if you had to leave a county with an officially declared disaster. Contact the county where you are currently staying to ask how to apply.
Can I replace lost or damaged food?
Yes. You can request replacement benefits for food that:
- You bought using CalFresh, and
- Was lost or damaged because of a fire, natural disaster, power outage, or another emergency
You usually have 10 days after the emergency to report the food loss, unless California gives people more time.
How do I request replacement benefits?
Download and complete the Replacement or Disaster Supplement Affidavit.
Submit it through BenefitsCal, by mail or fax, or at your county office.
Need help before applying?
If you have questions about documents, the interview, or your specific situation, our team can help.
After you submit
If you’re approved, you’ll get your Disaster CalFresh benefits within 3 days, including weekends.
Your county may call you or send you mail if they need more information or documents.