CalFresh Work Requirements
Understanding HR-1 Requirements Starting February 2026
We’re here to help you navigate the new work requirements and stay connected to your food assistance benefits. Let’s walk through this together.
New Work Requirements Start February 2026
Starting in February 2026, some CalFresh recipients ages 18-52 without dependents will need to meet work requirements to continue receiving benefits under the federal HR-1 rule.
Don’t worry—we’ll help you understand what this means for you and how to stay compliant.
What is HR-1?
HR-1 is a federal work requirement that affects certain CalFresh (food stamp) recipients. If you’re between ages 18-52, able to work, and don’t have dependents living with you, you may need to meet work requirements to keep receiving CalFresh benefits.
To keep your CalFresh benefits, you’ll need to work, volunteer, or participate in approved activities for at least 20 hours per week (or 80 hours per month).
Does HR-1 Apply to You?
✅ You ARE Affected If:
- You are between ages 18-52
- You are able to work (physically and mentally)
- You do NOT have any dependents (children under 18 or disabled adults) living with you
- You are receiving CalFresh benefits
🛡️ You ARE EXEMPT If:
- You are under 18 or over 52 years old
- You have dependent children under 18 living with you
- You are pregnant
- You are physically or mentally unable to work (verified by doctor)
- You are already working or participating in a work program for 20+ hours/week
- You are receiving unemployment benefits
- You are a student enrolled at least half-time
- You are caring for an incapacitated person
- You are experiencing homelessness
How to Meet the Work Requirements
You need to complete at least 80 hours per month (or about 20 hours per week) in approved activities. Here are your options:
💼 Work for Pay
Work for an employer for at least 80 hours per month. This includes part-time, full-time, or self-employment.
🤝 Volunteer Work
Volunteer at a nonprofit, community organization, school, or government agency for at least 80 hours per month. We can help you find volunteer opportunities!
📋 Participate in a Work Program
Join a CalFresh Employment & Training (CFET) program, CalWORKs, or other approved work/training program for at least 80 hours per month.
🔄 Combination
Combine work, volunteer hours, and/or training programs to reach 80 hours per month total.
We Can Help You Find Volunteer Opportunities
We Walk WITH You
The Provenance Solution can connect you with volunteer opportunities in your community that count toward your HR-1 requirements. We partner with nonprofits, schools, and community organizations across all four counties.
Find Volunteer Opportunities →We help you navigate the system, find opportunities that match your skills and schedule, and stay compliant with the requirements.
Timeline & What to Expect
Prepare Now
Start planning how you’ll meet the requirements. Check if you’re exempt. Contact us for help finding volunteer opportunities or understanding your options.
Notices Begin
If you’re affected by HR-1, you’ll receive a notice from your county explaining the requirements and what you need to do.
Requirements Start
HR-1 work requirements officially begin. You must start meeting the 80 hours/month requirement to continue receiving CalFresh benefits.
Stay Compliant
Report your hours to the county each month. Keep records of your work, volunteer, or training activities. We can help you track and report your hours.
How We Can Help You
Understand Requirements
We’ll explain HR-1 in plain language and help you know if you’re affected
Find Opportunities
Connect you with volunteer positions and work programs in your area
Navigate the System
Help you communicate with your county CalFresh office and stay compliant
Track Your Hours
Guidance on documenting and reporting your activities to the county
Contact Your County CalFresh Office
If you have questions about HR-1 or your specific situation, contact your county CalFresh office:
Need Help With CalFresh Work Requirements?
We’re here to walk with you through the HR-1 process. Let us help you find volunteer opportunities, understand the requirements, and stay connected to your benefits.
Additional Resources
📞 Call 2-1-1: Free, confidential assistance 24/7 for CalFresh and other benefits
🌐 BenefitsCal: Apply for CalFresh and manage your benefits online at BenefitsCal.com
💬 We’re Here to Help: Contact The Provenance Solution for free navigation support and guidance