CalFresh ABAWD Work Rules Start June 1 – Don't Lose Your Benefits

Caalifornia is enforcing strict new CalFresh work requirements starting June 1, 2026 — and thousands of recipients could lose food assistance within 90 days if they don't act now.
In this video, I break down exactly who is affected by the ABAWD (Able-Bodied Adult Without Dependents) rule, what you must do to keep your benefits, and which exemptions may protect you.
What you'll learn:

Who the new 20-hour work rule applies to
What activities count toward your monthly 80-hour requirement
Which exemptions still apply — and which ones have been eliminated
How and when your county will screen you
The exact steps to protect your CalFresh case before the deadline

Whether you're a current recipient or a new applicant, this video gives you the information you need to stay covered.
👉 Manage your case and find your county office at benefitscal.com
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Chapters / Timestamps
0:00 – What's Changing June 1, 2026
0:40 – Who Is Affected (ABAWD Explained)
1:36 – The 20-Hour Work Rule & What Counts
2:49 – Exemptions That Can Protect You
3:57 – Critical Warnings
4:25 How screening works
6:47 – Action Steps to Protect Your Benefits

FAQs

Q. Does gig work like DoorDash or Uber count toward the 20-hour requirement?
A. Yes — gig and self-employment work generally counts. Keep records like app screenshots or earnings statements to show your county as proof.
Q. If I'm homeless or a veteran, am I still exempt from the work rule?
A. Under the new federal rules, automatic exemptions for veterans and homeless individuals have been removed — you may now need to qualify under a medical or disability exemption instead. (This is informational only, not legal advice — contact your county for your specific situation.)
Q. When exactly will my county start screening me if I already receive CalFresh?
A. Current recipients are screened at their next annual recertification on or after June 1, 2026 — not immediately. Check your renewal date so you know your timeline.

Видео CalFresh ABAWD Work Rules Start June 1 – Don't Lose Your Benefits канала Benefit Breakdown