New Payment of Up to $1,175 Arrives Today for Residents in One State

California, often seen as a land of opportunity, also grapples with one of the widest wealth gaps in the nation.

With an escalating cost of living and a growing population of individuals experiencing homelessness, the state has expanded its social welfare initiatives to support its most vulnerable residents.

This June, a new payment of up to $1,175 is being issued through one of these programs, providing much-needed relief for eligible low-income families.

Rising Inequality and Homelessness in the Golden State

The state accounts for nearly 25% of the entire U.S. homeless population, largely driven by unaffordable housing. From 2023 to 2024, California saw a 3% increase in homelessness, with nearly 190,000 individuals affected as of January 2023.

In addition to the homelessness crisis, more than 20% of Californians report being unable to meet basic household expenses. By mid-2024, monthly housing payments for an average home had risen to almost $6,000, further straining family budgets.

To counter these challenges, the state has rolled out numerous initiatives, including over $27 billion in housing investments since 2016.

These funds have gone toward building affordable housing, expanding emergency shelters, and piloting guaranteed income programs. The Medi-Cal program has also been expanded to provide broader health coverage for low-income individuals.

CalWORKs: Up to $1,175 Available This Month

One of California’s flagship assistance programs is CalWORKs (California Work Opportunity and Responsibility to Kids), which offers cash aid to families across all 58 counties. This financial support helps families cover necessities like food, rent, and clothing.

The amount disbursed under CalWORKs varies based on several factors:

Household size
Total household income
Employment status
Presence of disabilities in the household

According to the California Department of Social Services, a family of three living in Region 1 and subject to the work participation requirements is eligible to receive up to $1,175 this month. If the same family is exempt from work requirements, the aid increases to $1,314.

“The purpose of CalWORKs is to provide equitable access to the services, resources, and opportunities families need to increase resilience, achieve economic mobility, and break the cycle of poverty,” as stated on the CalWORKs official site.

CalFresh: Food Assistance Through EBT Cards

For families who need additional help, specifically with food, CalFresh offers vital support. Known federally as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), CalFresh serves over 5 million Californians monthly.

Benefits are distributed via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which functions like a debit card at approved grocery retailers. Importantly:

CalWORKs recipients are automatically eligible for CalFresh.
SSI beneficiaries also qualify for CalFresh assistance.

This month, CalFresh benefits are being disbursed today for those whose case numbers end in 3, with other recipients receiving payments according to a staggered schedule throughout the month.

However, looming federal cuts may impact these services. The Trump Administration has proposed a 20% reduction in federal SNAP funding, as part of broader cost-cutting by the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE)—a move that could affect millions of Californians relying on this food support.

Payment Breakdown Table

Program	Who Qualifies	Max Monthly Benefit (3-Person Household)	Special Notes
CalWORKs	Low-income families meeting work requirements	$1,175	Region 1 – work-required families
CalWORKs	Low-income families exempt from work requirements	$1,314	Region 1 – work-exempt families
CalFresh (SNAP)	Low-income individuals/families & SSI recipients	Varies by income & household size	Paid via EBT; case number ending in 3 gets paid today

California continues to combat income inequality and rising living costs by expanding its social welfare infrastructure. With programs like CalWORKs and CalFresh, qualifying residents can receive up to $1,175 in June to help manage daily living expenses.

These initiatives are critical lifelines for millions, but proposed federal cuts could place future support at risk. Californians are encouraged to check their eligibility and apply to receive the assistance available to them.

FAQs

How do I apply for CalWORKs assistance in California?

You can apply online through BenefitsCal.com or visit your county social services office. Required documentation includes proof of income, residency, and household size.

When will CalFresh payments be distributed this month?

Payments are staggered based on your case number. For June, individuals with case numbers ending in 3 receive their benefits today.

Can I receive both CalWORKs and CalFresh benefits?

Yes. If you are approved for CalWORKs, you automatically become eligible for CalFresh, which helps cover grocery expenses through EBT.