Monterey County CalFresh Work-Requirement Time-Limit Waiver Extended Through October 2027

SALINAS, Calif. — Monterey County residents who receive CalFresh food benefits have an important update: the California Department of Social Services confirms that the county’s waiver of the federal Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWD) time limit will continue from November 1, 2026, through October 31, 2027.

The waiver means that eligible people living in Monterey County are not subject to the ABAWD rule that otherwise limits certain adults to three full months of benefits in a three-year period unless they meet qualifying work or community-engagement requirements or an exemption. The extension also covers Colusa, Imperial, Kings, Merced, Plumas and Tulare counties.

What the waiver does—and does not—mean

The waiver is not a blanket exemption from every CalFresh rule. Household income and other eligibility requirements still apply. The state also distinguishes the ABAWD time-limit rule from general CalFresh work registration requirements. Residents should not assume that every notice about employment, reporting or eligibility can be ignored.

The state says the ABAWD time-limit rules generally concern certain adults ages 18 through 64 who do not live with a CalFresh household member under 14, are considered able to work and do not qualify for another exemption. Individual circumstances can change how rules apply.

How residents can check their case

Residents in Salinas, Prunedale, Castroville, Greenfield, King City and other Monterey County communities can consult the California Department of Social Services’ official CalFresh work-requirements page for the current waiver list, screening tool and explanations. They can also use the Monterey County CalFresh program page for local assistance. The state CalFresh Benefits Helpline is 1-877-847-3663.

Some older county guidance still references the previous October 31, 2026 expiration. The state’s updated notice expressly lists Monterey County’s new October 31, 2027 end date, so residents should verify current rules rather than rely on an older handout.

Primary sources: California Department of Social Services — CalFresh Work and Community Engagement Requirements; CDSS All County Letter 26-63 (September 14, 2026).

Information current as of October 27, 2026. This article is general information, not an individual benefits determination.

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