CalFresh Update 2025-03: ABAWD Waiver (Revised)
CalFresh Handbook
| Date | References | Clerical | Implementation |
| 04/25/25 (Revised 06/26/25) | ACL 25-14, ACL 25-41 | N/A | Immediately |
Background
On July 16, 2024, The California Department of Social Services (CDSS) submitted a request to waive the CalFresh time limit for Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents (ABAWDs). The United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) approved this request granting a new two-year ABAWD time limit statewide waiver effective February 1, 2025, through January 31, 2027.
Changes
On May 21, 2025, FNS rescinded the two-year waiver and reissued a one-year ABAWD Time Limit waiver, effective February 1, 2025, through January 31, 2026.
The topic Statewide Waiver in Chapter 28 of the CalFresh Handbook has been revised to reflect this change.
Reminder
During the waiver period, counties must continue to:
- Identify ABAWDs, screen for exemptions using the ABAWD Screening and CFET Referral Form (SCD 2495), and inform clients of ABAWD rules.
- The SCD 2495 is an internal form developed to include our CFET program referrals. The form must continue to be utilized for ABAWD screening and it must be imaged.
- Provide the CalFresh Notice of Work Rules (CF 886) along with a comprehensive oral explanation of each applicable work rule to all household members subject to the CalFresh work rules.
- Track and report work registrant, ABAWD, and Employment and Training (E&T) data on the Non-Assistance CalFresh Work Registrants, Able-Bodied Adults Without Dependents, and Employment and Training Program Quarterly Statistical (STAT 47) report.
Department of Employment & Benefits Services
Contact Person(s): Ana Guitron, SSA BPIS