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"content": "\u003cp>According to Sunnyvale \u003ca href=\"https://deniselillie.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> Denise Lillie, the holidays are known to those in her profession as “engagement season.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But there are many reasons that couples may opt for a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">smaller, simpler elopement-style ceremony\u003c/a>, she said — not least the financial pressures of a \u003ca href=\"https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2024/05/22/wedding-planning-dress-cost-marriage-abbigail-shirk\">big traditional wedding\u003c/a>. According to \u003ca href=\"https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost\">a 2025 survey of around 17,000 couples by wedding website \u003cem>The Knot\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>, \u003c/em>the average cost of a wedding in the United States — the wedding dress, the venue, the band, the catering and so much more — is $33,000. In San Francisco, it’s $51,500.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lillie started seeing an increase in inquiries for these types of events during the height of the pandemic, when she observed many people wanting to make the commitment quickly and save a bigger celebration for later down the line — as well as a growing appreciation for the “aesthetics” of a small, intimate wedding ceremony among Gen-Z, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So if you’re one of those couples seeking to marry a partner as quickly and affordably as possible, how can you make a smaller city hall ceremony still feel special, without breaking the bank? Keep reading for advice from the wedding experts on how to make a simple, local ceremony extra enjoyable for you and your guests — whether you’re planning a larger party later or not — with particular tips for getting married at San Francisco City Hall.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re looking for a breakdown of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">the logistics of getting married swiftly and affordably\u003c/a>, from marriage licenses and certificate costs to timeframes, check out our earlier guide: From Paperwork to Costs, the Basics of Getting Married in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Jump straight to: \u003ca href=\"#HowtogetmarriedinSanFranciscoCityHall\">How to get married in San Francisco City Hall\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Know that not all costs are ‘essential’ …\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Beyond the basic costs of a marriage license and paying someone to perform your ceremony, there are a \u003cem>lot \u003c/em>of expenses people associate with weddings, said Alexis Levy, a San Francisco-based lawyer who is licensed to marry people in California: Rings, clothes, venues, “all that kind of stuff.”[aside postID=news_12067114 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-03-KQED_qed.jpg']But Levy explained that “none of those are technically legally required to get married,” and rather to see those costs as “just common pieces of a wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/abandlamudi\">KQED’s own Adhiti Bandlamudi \u003c/a>echoed this advice for couples to work out what’s truly important to them for their own big day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When it came to her own civil ceremony in 2021 at San Francisco City Hall, Bandlamudi wore a white dress purchased from Anthropologie.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Afterwards, she and her loved ones gathered together in the couple’s cozy Richmond apartment, with takeout Indian pizza for catering. She even made her own gingerbread wedding cake.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>… and figure out your own priorities\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For some couples, the emotional stress of weddings — the costs, the planning, the constant wondering of what other people and families are going to think — can burden them. But, Bandlamudi said, “it’s \u003cem>your wedding\u003c/em>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She recommended that couples focus on what that day means to them: “Is it the vibes? Is it the music? Is that the food?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you and your partner have discussed the elements that truly matter to you, “focus on that, make it really special,” advised Bandlamudi. This will also help you eliminate certain aspects and costs you just don’t need or want.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And now that you’ve established your non-negotiables …\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Make a checklist to manage the day itself …\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the majority of intimate elopements or city hall weddings, “most couples really tend to manage the event themselves,” said Nilou Nouri, a \u003ca href=\"https://nilouweddings.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> based in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But sometimes she’s looped in to make the “day a little more effortless for them,” like managing florals, guests or booking a photographer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067145\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067145 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Denise Lillie at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>While an elopement is “still a special day for you,” wedding planner Lillie said, there may be some key aspects you can overlook in the rush and excitement.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, hiring a content creator — a person to film vertical videos of the ceremony optimized for posting to platforms like Instagram or TikTok — has become super popular among couples, even during shorter weddings, Lillie said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A couple may also choose to book a photographer or hair and make-up artist. She said a lot of services can be reserved on short notice by sifting through wedding groups on social media.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lillie suggested couples come up with a plan or checklist ahead of the ceremony — or designate tasks to friends, family or a planner.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>… and work out your day’s timeline\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Timing is important, especially since the ceremony itself is an appointment of a certain length. You and your partner can establish:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>What is the timeline for the day?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>If you are meeting at the city hall, what time is everyone getting there? Where are you physically meeting? Remember to allow time to go through the city hall’s security.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Where will you park? (For example, “the best parking for San Francisco City Hall is under the Civic Center Plaza,” added Nouri.)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Do you want a bouquet?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Do you want a cake? Will it be delivered somewhere, or will someone pick it up?\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Even just a few days of planning is worth it, Nouri said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My advice would be to still take that personal time for yourself and do what’s important,” she said. “Not to overlook that … just because it’s on a more intimate scale.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Consider all the free places you can take your wedding pictures\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Any public spot in San Francisco City Hall is free to take pictures, explained Nouri. And it’s such a beautiful space that Nouri “definitely” recommends springing for a professional photographer to capture your day, even if only briefly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There are some photographers who do City Hall specials,” she said. “Maybe you hire them for 30 minutes to 60 minutes or 90 minutes.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067266\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067266\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Haojun Chen (right) and Kitling Zhang pose for a photo on the Grand Staircase inside San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Other free places around San Francisco alone that are popular photography locations include public spaces like:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The steps outside of San Francisco City Hall\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The steps outside the Asian Art Museum, next to City Hall\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Palace of Fine Arts\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Presidio, especially \u003ca href=\"https://presidio.gov/explore/attractions/lovers-lane-trail\">Lovers Lane\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sutro Baths\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Baker Beach\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Case study: \u003ca id=\"HowtogetmarriedinSanFranciscoCityHall\">\u003c/a>How to get married in San Francisco City Hall\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Book your ceremony, depending on guest list and day\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I love City Hall weddings,” Nouri said. “It’s one of the most beautiful venues in San Francisco.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Given its popularity, San Francisco City Hall requires \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/event-calendar/\">booking in advance\u003c/a>. If you want a large ceremony at City Hall — defined as more than six guests — \u003cem>or \u003c/em>want to get married on a weekend or holiday, you’ll have to book through \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/weddings/\">the city’s events page\u003c/a>. Among its offerings is \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/one-hour-weddings/\">a one-hour wedding package\u003c/a>, which costs $1,200.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have six or fewer guests, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/have-civil-marriage-or-domestic-partnership-ceremony-city-hall\">book an appointment for a smaller civil ceremony\u003c/a>. That’s what KQED’s Bandlamudi did.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067243\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067243\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photographers navigate posing their subjects on the grand staircase at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>She said while she and her parents were excited about a “traditional big Indian wedding,” she and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11895000/how-i-met-my-husband-despite-the-global-pandemic\">her now-husband\u003c/a> wanted to have “something a little more intimate \u003cem>before \u003c/em>the wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco City Hall felt like a natural choice since “it’s already such a pretty place,” she said. “In the morning, we had our appointment at City Hall,” and had their “a very, very quick ceremony” performed by a judge.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bandlamudi said she was surprised by how relatively easy the whole process was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It was very simple. And anyone can do it,” she said, although she noted that they had to book the ceremony itself “pretty quickly” after \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">getting the license\u003c/a>.[aside postID=news_11895000 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2021/11/004_SanFrancisco_AdhitiShaishav_09162021-1020x680.jpg']San Francisco County Clerk Diane Rea said City Hall offers around thirty to forty appointments a day for their weekday ceremonies. Many of these are in the rotunda area, Rea explained, and are “short and sweet.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Consider the day and time if you \u003cem>don’t \u003c/em>want a busy scene\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In Nouri’s experience, the best times for elopement-style ceremonies at San Francisco City Hall are around 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. Midday, around 12 to 3 p.m., tends to be the busiest time, she said. And Mondays or Fridays especially bring crowds to City Hall, Nouri noted.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For her, the busiest months for weddings at San Francisco City Hall are February, with Valentine’s Day and “2” being a lucky number in some cultures, and June, for Pride Month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Know you’ll be sharing the space — and stay on time\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While three couples may share an appointment, the ceremonies at San Francisco City Hall are one at a time. Rea said in the excitement of the wedding, some couples may wander off to take photos as they wait for their ceremony, but it really helps if the couple stays in the area and takes pictures \u003cem>after \u003c/em>the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s really important to be on time. Because that could snowball through the day if they’re late,” she said, and couples will have the rest of the day to take pictures after the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind: a government space like City Hall draws people for all types of occasions, like graduation or quinceañeras. Expect to potentially run into crowds, and for noise to travel within the building.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>According to Sunnyvale \u003ca href=\"https://deniselillie.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> Denise Lillie, the holidays are known to those in her profession as “engagement season.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But there are many reasons that couples may opt for a \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">smaller, simpler elopement-style ceremony\u003c/a>, she said — not least the financial pressures of a \u003ca href=\"https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2024/05/22/wedding-planning-dress-cost-marriage-abbigail-shirk\">big traditional wedding\u003c/a>. According to \u003ca href=\"https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost\">a 2025 survey of around 17,000 couples by wedding website \u003cem>The Knot\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>, \u003c/em>the average cost of a wedding in the United States — the wedding dress, the venue, the band, the catering and so much more — is $33,000. In San Francisco, it’s $51,500.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lillie started seeing an increase in inquiries for these types of events during the height of the pandemic, when she observed many people wanting to make the commitment quickly and save a bigger celebration for later down the line — as well as a growing appreciation for the “aesthetics” of a small, intimate wedding ceremony among Gen-Z, she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So if you’re one of those couples seeking to marry a partner as quickly and affordably as possible, how can you make a smaller city hall ceremony still feel special, without breaking the bank? Keep reading for advice from the wedding experts on how to make a simple, local ceremony extra enjoyable for you and your guests — whether you’re planning a larger party later or not — with particular tips for getting married at San Francisco City Hall.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re looking for a breakdown of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">the logistics of getting married swiftly and affordably\u003c/a>, from marriage licenses and certificate costs to timeframes, check out our earlier guide: From Paperwork to Costs, the Basics of Getting Married in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Jump straight to: \u003ca href=\"#HowtogetmarriedinSanFranciscoCityHall\">How to get married in San Francisco City Hall\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Know that not all costs are ‘essential’ …\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Beyond the basic costs of a marriage license and paying someone to perform your ceremony, there are a \u003cem>lot \u003c/em>of expenses people associate with weddings, said Alexis Levy, a San Francisco-based lawyer who is licensed to marry people in California: Rings, clothes, venues, “all that kind of stuff.”\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>But Levy explained that “none of those are technically legally required to get married,” and rather to see those costs as “just common pieces of a wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/author/abandlamudi\">KQED’s own Adhiti Bandlamudi \u003c/a>echoed this advice for couples to work out what’s truly important to them for their own big day.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When it came to her own civil ceremony in 2021 at San Francisco City Hall, Bandlamudi wore a white dress purchased from Anthropologie.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Afterwards, she and her loved ones gathered together in the couple’s cozy Richmond apartment, with takeout Indian pizza for catering. She even made her own gingerbread wedding cake.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>… and figure out your own priorities\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For some couples, the emotional stress of weddings — the costs, the planning, the constant wondering of what other people and families are going to think — can burden them. But, Bandlamudi said, “it’s \u003cem>your wedding\u003c/em>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She recommended that couples focus on what that day means to them: “Is it the vibes? Is it the music? Is that the food?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you and your partner have discussed the elements that truly matter to you, “focus on that, make it really special,” advised Bandlamudi. This will also help you eliminate certain aspects and costs you just don’t need or want.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And now that you’ve established your non-negotiables …\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Make a checklist to manage the day itself …\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the majority of intimate elopements or city hall weddings, “most couples really tend to manage the event themselves,” said Nilou Nouri, a \u003ca href=\"https://nilouweddings.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> based in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But sometimes she’s looped in to make the “day a little more effortless for them,” like managing florals, guests or booking a photographer.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067145\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067145 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Denise Lillie at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>While an elopement is “still a special day for you,” wedding planner Lillie said, there may be some key aspects you can overlook in the rush and excitement.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, hiring a content creator — a person to film vertical videos of the ceremony optimized for posting to platforms like Instagram or TikTok — has become super popular among couples, even during shorter weddings, Lillie said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A couple may also choose to book a photographer or hair and make-up artist. She said a lot of services can be reserved on short notice by sifting through wedding groups on social media.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lillie suggested couples come up with a plan or checklist ahead of the ceremony — or designate tasks to friends, family or a planner.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>… and work out your day’s timeline\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Timing is important, especially since the ceremony itself is an appointment of a certain length. You and your partner can establish:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>What is the timeline for the day?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>If you are meeting at the city hall, what time is everyone getting there? Where are you physically meeting? Remember to allow time to go through the city hall’s security.\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Where will you park? (For example, “the best parking for San Francisco City Hall is under the Civic Center Plaza,” added Nouri.)\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Do you want a bouquet?\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Do you want a cake? Will it be delivered somewhere, or will someone pick it up?\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Even just a few days of planning is worth it, Nouri said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My advice would be to still take that personal time for yourself and do what’s important,” she said. “Not to overlook that … just because it’s on a more intimate scale.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Consider all the free places you can take your wedding pictures\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Any public spot in San Francisco City Hall is free to take pictures, explained Nouri. And it’s such a beautiful space that Nouri “definitely” recommends springing for a professional photographer to capture your day, even if only briefly.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There are some photographers who do City Hall specials,” she said. “Maybe you hire them for 30 minutes to 60 minutes or 90 minutes.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067266\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067266\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-02-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Haojun Chen (right) and Kitling Zhang pose for a photo on the Grand Staircase inside San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Other free places around San Francisco alone that are popular photography locations include public spaces like:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The steps outside of San Francisco City Hall\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The steps outside the Asian Art Museum, next to City Hall\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Palace of Fine Arts\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The Presidio, especially \u003ca href=\"https://presidio.gov/explore/attractions/lovers-lane-trail\">Lovers Lane\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Sutro Baths\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Baker Beach\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>Case study: \u003ca id=\"HowtogetmarriedinSanFranciscoCityHall\">\u003c/a>How to get married in San Francisco City Hall\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Book your ceremony, depending on guest list and day\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I love City Hall weddings,” Nouri said. “It’s one of the most beautiful venues in San Francisco.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Given its popularity, San Francisco City Hall requires \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/event-calendar/\">booking in advance\u003c/a>. If you want a large ceremony at City Hall — defined as more than six guests — \u003cem>or \u003c/em>want to get married on a weekend or holiday, you’ll have to book through \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/weddings/\">the city’s events page\u003c/a>. Among its offerings is \u003ca href=\"https://sfcityhallevents.org/one-hour-weddings/\">a one-hour wedding package\u003c/a>, which costs $1,200.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have six or fewer guests, you can \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/have-civil-marriage-or-domestic-partnership-ceremony-city-hall\">book an appointment for a smaller civil ceremony\u003c/a>. That’s what KQED’s Bandlamudi did.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067243\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067243\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photographers navigate posing their subjects on the grand staircase at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>She said while she and her parents were excited about a “traditional big Indian wedding,” she and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11895000/how-i-met-my-husband-despite-the-global-pandemic\">her now-husband\u003c/a> wanted to have “something a little more intimate \u003cem>before \u003c/em>the wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>San Francisco City Hall felt like a natural choice since “it’s already such a pretty place,” she said. “In the morning, we had our appointment at City Hall,” and had their “a very, very quick ceremony” performed by a judge.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bandlamudi said she was surprised by how relatively easy the whole process was.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It was very simple. And anyone can do it,” she said, although she noted that they had to book the ceremony itself “pretty quickly” after \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067114/getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage\">getting the license\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>San Francisco County Clerk Diane Rea said City Hall offers around thirty to forty appointments a day for their weekday ceremonies. Many of these are in the rotunda area, Rea explained, and are “short and sweet.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Consider the day and time if you \u003cem>don’t \u003c/em>want a busy scene\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In Nouri’s experience, the best times for elopement-style ceremonies at San Francisco City Hall are around 9 a.m. or 10 a.m. Midday, around 12 to 3 p.m., tends to be the busiest time, she said. And Mondays or Fridays especially bring crowds to City Hall, Nouri noted.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For her, the busiest months for weddings at San Francisco City Hall are February, with Valentine’s Day and “2” being a lucky number in some cultures, and June, for Pride Month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Know you’ll be sharing the space — and stay on time\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While three couples may share an appointment, the ceremonies at San Francisco City Hall are one at a time. Rea said in the excitement of the wedding, some couples may wander off to take photos as they wait for their ceremony, but it really helps if the couple stays in the area and takes pictures \u003cem>after \u003c/em>the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s really important to be on time. Because that could snowball through the day if they’re late,” she said, and couples will have the rest of the day to take pictures after the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind: a government space like City Hall draws people for all types of occasions, like graduation or quinceañeras. Expect to potentially run into crowds, and for noise to travel within the building.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "this-holiday-season-where-to-find-free-food-clothing-and-hot-meals-in-the-bay-area",
"title": "This Holiday Season, Where to Find Free Food, Clothing and Hot Meals in the Bay Area",
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"headTitle": "This Holiday Season, Where to Find Free Food, Clothing and Hot Meals in the Bay Area | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>Between the Bay Area’s recent\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12066736/bay-area-stuck-with-unusually-cold-weather-thanks-to-this-naturally-occurring-culprit\"> cold spell \u003c/a>and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12064126/snap-benefits-hung-in-limbo-for-weeks-it-was-a-peek-at-life-under-long-term-cuts\">delays in distributing\u003c/a> Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funds during the federal government shutdown, you or your neighbors may be in need of some extra help this holiday season.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The good news is that there are ample organizations working to get free pantry staples, warm clothes and even hot meals to Bay Area residents this time of year — and many of them offer volunteer opportunities if you’ve got a little extra time on your hands.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Read on for more information on how to access these and other resources this winter and how to lend a helping hand.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Jump straight to:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"#Wheretogetfreegroceries\">Where to get free groceries\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"#Wheretofindahotmealduringtheholidays\">Where to find a hot meal during the holidays\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"#Wheretogetclothesgiftsandothersupplies\">Where to get clothes, gifts and other supplies\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"Wheretogetfreegroceries\">\u003c/a>Pantry food\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.alamedafoodbank.org/get-food/\">\u003cstrong>Alameda Food Bank\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 677 West Ranger Ave., Alameda\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In-person shopping and online ordering for curbside pick up for clients with mobility needs are both available at this East Bay location.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Pick up is limited to those living, working or going to school in Alameda, but if you don’t qualify, you can call the helpline at (510) 635-3663 to find options elsewhere in the region.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064885\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12064885 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A person shops at the Alameda Food Bank on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.alamedafoodbank.org/volunteer/\">Sign up here\u003c/a> to make an ongoing commitment to the food bank.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://samaritanhousesanmateo.org/service/holiday-programs/\">\u003cstrong>Samaritan House of San Mateo\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 4031 Pacific Blvd., San Mateo\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Sign up to receive donated food or for \u003ca href=\"https://samaritanhousesanmateo.org/family-sharing-program/\">Samaritan House’s Family Sharing\u003c/a> Program, where families from San Mateo County get matched with donors for the holiday season.[aside postID=news_12066120 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/CalFreshGetty.jpg']\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>You can \u003ca href=\"https://samaritanhousesanmateo.org/volunteer/\">sign up\u003c/a> to serve food or help with meal delivery here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.marthas-kitchen.org/ourservices\">\u003cstrong>Martha’s Community Market\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 749 Story Road, San José\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you can swing by and shop for free groceries and dry goods, just make an \u003ca href=\"https://limiter.addonforge.com/limiter?formId=1FAIpQLSf3c40kWeqC8k-kKoayKg2GTtLMSeKXqDWgS6tI6UEEM-66RA\">appointment \u003c/a>and make sure you’re already signed up for services through the organization.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>Register to help out this holiday season \u003ca href=\"https://www.marthas-kitchen.org/volunteer\">here\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.ccscc.org/free-food-distribution?locale=en\">\u003cstrong>Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, San José\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Check the schedule for \u003ca href=\"https://www.ccscc.org/free-food-distribution?locale=en\">market times and locations\u003c/a> to get free groceries all across the South Bay, but be aware of some closures at the end of December.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.ccscc.org/become-a-volunteer?locale=en\">Volunteers are needed\u003c/a> to help serve and organize food and groceries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12061440/calfresh-snap-ebt-shutdown-find-food-banks-near-me-san-francisco-bay-area-alameda-oakland-contra-costa-newsom-national-guard\">Find a more comprehensive list of food banks across the Bay Area here.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"Wheretofindahotmealduringtheholidays\">\u003c/a>Hot meals\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.glide.org/holidays-at-glide/\">\u003cstrong>GLIDE\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 330 Ellis St., San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Christmas Eve Luncheon Celebration is scheduled for Dec. 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with prime rib and sides provided by San Francisco’s House of Prime Rib.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On Christmas Day, ham, turkey and all the fixings will be served to nearly 2,500 people from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>Shifts fill up quickly, so sign up \u003ca href=\"https://www.glide.org/volunteer/\">here\u003c/a>, and check back for openings often.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067444\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067444\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/GlideChurchSFGetty2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1357\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/GlideChurchSFGetty2.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/GlideChurchSFGetty2-160x109.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/GlideChurchSFGetty2-1536x1042.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Volunteers serve holiday meals at Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco, California, on Sunday, Dec. 25, 2022. \u003ccite>(Jane Tyska/Digital First Media/East Bay Times via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://martindeporres.org/\">\u003cstrong>Martin de Porres House of Hospitality\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 225 Potrero Ave., San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Christmas Eve lunch will include vegetarian turkey roasts, mashed potatoes and plenty of cookies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>Sign up to help out using the form on this \u003ca href=\"https://martindeporres.org/\">page\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.tenderlointessie.com/\">\u003cstrong>Tenderloin Tessie Holiday Dinners\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 1187 Franklin St., San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Christmas Dinner will be served from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at First Unitarian Universalist Church.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>Reach out by calling (415) 584-3252 or via email at \u003ca href=\"mailto:tenderlointessie@gmail.com\">tenderlointessie@gmail.com\u003c/a> to help with holiday meals.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"Wheretogetclothesgiftsandothersupplies\">\u003c/a>Clothing and supplies\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"http://stanthonysf.org/services/clothing/\">\u003cstrong>St. Anthony’s\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 150 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Sign up for an \u003ca href=\"https://www.stanthonysf.org/services/clothing/shop-for-clothes/\">appointment \u003c/a>to shop at the Free Clothing Store at 121 Golden Gate Ave. There are no eligibility requirements, but staff may request to see ID to confirm your enrollment status.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067453\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067453\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/111918_AW_SoupKitchen_19_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/111918_AW_SoupKitchen_19_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/111918_AW_SoupKitchen_19_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/111918_AW_SoupKitchen_19_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rows of women’s clothing in the storage area of the St. Anthony’s free clothing program on Nov. 19, 2018. Clothing donations increase significantly around the holidays. \u003ccite>(Anne Wernikoff/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>You can \u003ca href=\"https://www.stanthonysf.org/services/clothing/how-to-donate/\">donate\u003c/a> clean, new and gently used clothing or \u003ca href=\"https://www.stanthonysf.org/volunteer/\">give your time\u003c/a> to help with the program.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sacredheartcs.org/programs-food-clothing\">\u003cstrong>Sacred Heart Community Service\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 1281 South First St., San José\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Clothes Closet is open weekdays starting at 9 a.m. Anyone in need of clothes can shop twice per month and take home up to five articles of clothing for free.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>New volunteers can learn about the process and apply \u003ca href=\"https://www.sacredheartcs.org/volunteer\">here\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Between the Bay Area’s recent\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12066736/bay-area-stuck-with-unusually-cold-weather-thanks-to-this-naturally-occurring-culprit\"> cold spell \u003c/a>and \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12064126/snap-benefits-hung-in-limbo-for-weeks-it-was-a-peek-at-life-under-long-term-cuts\">delays in distributing\u003c/a> Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program funds during the federal government shutdown, you or your neighbors may be in need of some extra help this holiday season.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The good news is that there are ample organizations working to get free pantry staples, warm clothes and even hot meals to Bay Area residents this time of year — and many of them offer volunteer opportunities if you’ve got a little extra time on your hands.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Read on for more information on how to access these and other resources this winter and how to lend a helping hand.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Jump straight to:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"#Wheretogetfreegroceries\">Where to get free groceries\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"#Wheretofindahotmealduringtheholidays\">Where to find a hot meal during the holidays\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003ca href=\"#Wheretogetclothesgiftsandothersupplies\">Where to get clothes, gifts and other supplies\u003c/a>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"Wheretogetfreegroceries\">\u003c/a>Pantry food\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.alamedafoodbank.org/get-food/\">\u003cstrong>Alameda Food Bank\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 677 West Ranger Ave., Alameda\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In-person shopping and online ordering for curbside pick up for clients with mobility needs are both available at this East Bay location.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Pick up is limited to those living, working or going to school in Alameda, but if you don’t qualify, you can call the helpline at (510) 635-3663 to find options elsewhere in the region.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064885\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12064885 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A person shops at the Alameda Food Bank on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.alamedafoodbank.org/volunteer/\">Sign up here\u003c/a> to make an ongoing commitment to the food bank.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://samaritanhousesanmateo.org/service/holiday-programs/\">\u003cstrong>Samaritan House of San Mateo\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 4031 Pacific Blvd., San Mateo\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Sign up to receive donated food or for \u003ca href=\"https://samaritanhousesanmateo.org/family-sharing-program/\">Samaritan House’s Family Sharing\u003c/a> Program, where families from San Mateo County get matched with donors for the holiday season.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>You can \u003ca href=\"https://samaritanhousesanmateo.org/volunteer/\">sign up\u003c/a> to serve food or help with meal delivery here.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.marthas-kitchen.org/ourservices\">\u003cstrong>Martha’s Community Market\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 749 Story Road, San José\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., you can swing by and shop for free groceries and dry goods, just make an \u003ca href=\"https://limiter.addonforge.com/limiter?formId=1FAIpQLSf3c40kWeqC8k-kKoayKg2GTtLMSeKXqDWgS6tI6UEEM-66RA\">appointment \u003c/a>and make sure you’re already signed up for services through the organization.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>Register to help out this holiday season \u003ca href=\"https://www.marthas-kitchen.org/volunteer\">here\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.ccscc.org/free-food-distribution?locale=en\">\u003cstrong>Catholic Charities of Santa Clara County\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, San José\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Check the schedule for \u003ca href=\"https://www.ccscc.org/free-food-distribution?locale=en\">market times and locations\u003c/a> to get free groceries all across the South Bay, but be aware of some closures at the end of December.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>\u003ca href=\"https://www.ccscc.org/become-a-volunteer?locale=en\">Volunteers are needed\u003c/a> to help serve and organize food and groceries.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12061440/calfresh-snap-ebt-shutdown-find-food-banks-near-me-san-francisco-bay-area-alameda-oakland-contra-costa-newsom-national-guard\">Find a more comprehensive list of food banks across the Bay Area here.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"Wheretofindahotmealduringtheholidays\">\u003c/a>Hot meals\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.glide.org/holidays-at-glide/\">\u003cstrong>GLIDE\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 330 Ellis St., San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Christmas Eve Luncheon Celebration is scheduled for Dec. 24 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with prime rib and sides provided by San Francisco’s House of Prime Rib.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>On Christmas Day, ham, turkey and all the fixings will be served to nearly 2,500 people from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>Shifts fill up quickly, so sign up \u003ca href=\"https://www.glide.org/volunteer/\">here\u003c/a>, and check back for openings often.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067444\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067444\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/GlideChurchSFGetty2.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1357\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/GlideChurchSFGetty2.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/GlideChurchSFGetty2-160x109.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/GlideChurchSFGetty2-1536x1042.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Volunteers serve holiday meals at Glide Memorial Church in San Francisco, California, on Sunday, Dec. 25, 2022. \u003ccite>(Jane Tyska/Digital First Media/East Bay Times via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://martindeporres.org/\">\u003cstrong>Martin de Porres House of Hospitality\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 225 Potrero Ave., San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Christmas Eve lunch will include vegetarian turkey roasts, mashed potatoes and plenty of cookies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>Sign up to help out using the form on this \u003ca href=\"https://martindeporres.org/\">page\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.tenderlointessie.com/\">\u003cstrong>Tenderloin Tessie Holiday Dinners\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 1187 Franklin St., San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Christmas Dinner will be served from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at First Unitarian Universalist Church.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>Reach out by calling (415) 584-3252 or via email at \u003ca href=\"mailto:tenderlointessie@gmail.com\">tenderlointessie@gmail.com\u003c/a> to help with holiday meals.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"Wheretogetclothesgiftsandothersupplies\">\u003c/a>Clothing and supplies\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"http://stanthonysf.org/services/clothing/\">\u003cstrong>St. Anthony’s\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 150 Golden Gate Ave., San Francisco\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Sign up for an \u003ca href=\"https://www.stanthonysf.org/services/clothing/shop-for-clothes/\">appointment \u003c/a>to shop at the Free Clothing Store at 121 Golden Gate Ave. There are no eligibility requirements, but staff may request to see ID to confirm your enrollment status.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067453\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067453\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/111918_AW_SoupKitchen_19_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/111918_AW_SoupKitchen_19_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/111918_AW_SoupKitchen_19_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/111918_AW_SoupKitchen_19_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Rows of women’s clothing in the storage area of the St. Anthony’s free clothing program on Nov. 19, 2018. Clothing donations increase significantly around the holidays. \u003ccite>(Anne Wernikoff/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>You can \u003ca href=\"https://www.stanthonysf.org/services/clothing/how-to-donate/\">donate\u003c/a> clean, new and gently used clothing or \u003ca href=\"https://www.stanthonysf.org/volunteer/\">give your time\u003c/a> to help with the program.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.sacredheartcs.org/programs-food-clothing\">\u003cstrong>Sacred Heart Community Service\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003cstrong>, 1281 South First St., San José\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Clothes Closet is open weekdays starting at 9 a.m. Anyone in need of clothes can shop twice per month and take home up to five articles of clothing for free.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cem>For volunteers: \u003c/em>New volunteers can learn about the process and apply \u003ca href=\"https://www.sacredheartcs.org/volunteer\">here\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"slug": "getting-married-san-francisco-bay-area-wedding-license-certificate-costs-officiant-witnesses-change-name-marriage",
"title": "From Paperwork to Costs, the Basics of Getting Married in the Bay Area",
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"headTitle": "From Paperwork to Costs, the Basics of Getting Married in the Bay Area | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>When I told KQED coworkers I was working on a guide to getting married quickly, my fundraising colleague Lilly Payne joked that she and her wife got married “for love and health insurance.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To be clear, the plan was always to \u003cem>get \u003c/em>married. “She’s the love of my life. She’s my favorite person,” Payne said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But she explained she had to accelerate her wedding plans in 2023 to be able to keep her then-fiancée insured before a big move the very same week. This rapid change in circumstance delayed the couple’s plan for a larger ceremony in favor of backyard vows conducted by an ordained neighbor, and witnessed by their friends and their dog, Oliver.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We didn’t have rings yet, but we had matching baseball caps,” Payne laughed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while this quick approach was admittedly “not what we were expecting at all,” said Payne, the tradeoff of cementing the couple’s legal partnership for their joint health and happiness was, for them, worth it.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>When a speedy wedding feels right\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Payne was by no means alone in choosing to formalize a partnership earlier than originally planned for practical reasons. In the United States, where access to good healthcare is often tied to employment or marriage, \u003ca href=\"https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/living-single/202103/its-not-just-love-some-stay-married-the-health-insurance\">health insurance can be a large motivator\u003c/a> — as can financial pressures in general.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People may choose elopements, that is, quicker or smaller ceremonies, for a variety of reasons, Sunnyvale \u003ca href=\"https://deniselillie.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> Denise Lillie said. She started seeing an increase in inquiries for these types of events during the height of the pandemic, when she observed many people wanting to make the commitment quickly — and celebrate later.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067145\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067145 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Denise Lillie at San Francicsco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Lillie said planners like her have also received requests from LGBTQ+ couples concerned about the future of marriage equality.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even though the \u003ca href=\"https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/supreme-court-rejects-long-shot-effort-overturn-sex-marriage-ruling-rcna241113\">Supreme Court rejected the latest request\u003c/a> to overturn the U.S.’s landmark same-sex marriage ruling in early November, some couples have \u003ca href=\"https://time.com/7297484/obergefell-anniversary-trump-gay-marriage/\">expressed anxiety about the future of equal marriage\u003c/a> under President Donald Trump’s\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12023784/after-trumps-order-on-two-genders-trans-rights-groups-taking-action\"> second administration\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The aesthetics of a small, intimate wedding ceremony — sometimes followed up by a bigger party later down the line — has also gained in popularity among Gen-Z, Lillie said.[aside postID=news_12067194 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingsGetty2.jpg']And then, there are the undoubted financial pressures of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2024/05/22/wedding-planning-dress-cost-marriage-abbigail-shirk\">big traditional wedding\u003c/a>: According to \u003ca href=\"https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost\">a 2025 survey of around 17,000 couples by wedding website \u003cem>The Knot\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>, \u003c/em>the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $33,000. In San Francisco, it’s $51,500.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the midst of the holidays, also known as “engagement season” to wedding planners like Lillie, if you’re someone seeking to marry a partner as quickly and affordably as possible, you may be wondering: What are the logistics of getting married? What kind of paperwork do you actually need, and what are the timeframes — and costs?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for the breakdown — and bear in mind that since the following doesn’t constitute legal advice, it’s always a good idea to speak to a lawyer about marriage licenses, name change options, finances and more when it comes to your own circumstances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re looking for specific ways to make a small, simple ceremony feel special, check out our \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067194/san-francisco-city-hall-wedding-ceremony-how-to-plan-small-simple-marriage\">advice from wedding experts\u003c/a> for making the most of your intimate ceremony, with particular tips for getting married at San Francisco City Hall.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The paperwork basics of getting married\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>To be formally married in California, you’ll need to obtain two documents:\u003c/p>\n\u003col>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>A marriage license\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>This document authorizes your marriage to take place in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003col start=\"2\">\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>A marriage certificate\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>This document then acts as the proof of your marriage “through the county and state’s eyes,” said Alexis Levy, a San Francisco-based lawyer who is licensed to marry people in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Getting your marriage license\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How do I get a marriage license in California?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A marriage license is essentially a permit to get married, although you won’t be legally married \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">until you have a ceremony.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To obtain a license, both partners should already be unmarried and over 18. (\u003ca href=\"https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/juvenile3/juvenilemarriagelicenses3#:~:text=California%20law%20requires%20a%20person,the%20discretion%20of%20the%20court.\">People under 18\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applicant-cannot-physically-appear-person\">incarcerated\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applicant-cannot-physically-appear-person\">hospitalized\u003c/a> or \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--special-case-weddings\">in active military duty\u003c/a> have separate procedures for getting married.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In California, the process for obtaining a marriage license varies by county, and you’ll often be asked to complete an application online before picking up the license.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12058872\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12058872\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">City Hall is reflected in the Veterans Building in San Francisco on Aug. 8, 2023. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">San Francisco\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applying-marriage-license\">San Mateo\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.napacounty.gov/1327/Marriage-License-Ceremony\">Napa County\u003c/a>, you need to book an appointment to pick up your license. In \u003ca href=\"https://www.acgov.org/auditor/clerk/bdm/marrlic.htm\">Alameda County\u003c/a>, the process is done through \u003ca href=\"https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-services-virtual/\">a video conference call\u003c/a>. In \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">Santa Clara\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/\">Contra Costa\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.arcc.marincounty.gov/services/marriage-birth-and-death/applying-marriage-license\">Marin\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://sonomacounty.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/clerk-recorder-assessor/clerk-recorder/clerk-services/marriage-license\">Sonoma\u003c/a>, and \u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.gov/government/treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk/county-clerk/marriage-license\">Solano\u003c/a>, marriage licenses are issued on a walk-in basis only.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When going to the county clerk’s office to get your license, you usually will need to bring a valid government-issued ID. Both parties need to be present.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do I need to get a marriage license in the county I live in? Or the county I intend to get married in?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx\">You can actually get a marriage license from any California county\u003c/a>, as long as your marriage ceremony takes place in California. You don’t have to live in that county or get married in that county.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This may offer you some convenience and flexibility if, for example, appointments for marriage licenses are scarce in the county you live in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Are there different kinds of marriage licenses?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are two different types of licenses that a couple can obtain, which impact costs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Most couples choose what’s called a “\u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\"> public marriage license\u003c/a>,” which allows the marriage to be \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">a public record\u003c/a> and requires a witness at the ceremony. These licenses cost around \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">$80\u003c/a> to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">$127\u003c/a>, depending on the county. Most couples \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">opt for this license\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067155\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067155\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-160x90.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-1200x675.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A pair of wedding rings on June 27, 2013. \u003ccite>(Christoph Edel/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>A “confidential marriage license” means that the marriage record is available \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">only to the couple\u003c/a> or by \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx\">court order from the same county\u003c/a>. These ceremonies require no witnesses, but the couple must also already \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">live together\u003c/a> to be eligible for a confidential marriage license. These licenses typically cost a little more than public marriage licenses: For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">Santa Clara County\u003c/a>, the standard marriage license is $80, and the confidential marriage license is $83.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How quickly can I get a marriage license? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It depends on how busy the office is, but an appointment for a license can take \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-married-san-francisco\">as little as \u003c/a>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.gov/government/treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk/county-clerk/marriage-license\">half an hour\u003c/a>. A \u003ca href=\"https://media.api.sf.gov/documents/2018_Public_Marriage_License_Application_09.13.18_nPUtUdp.pdf\">marriage license application\u003c/a> itself is around a page and a half.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The real key about the marriage license is to keep it safe,” San Francisco County Clerk Diane Rea said. “I know it looks like a piece of paper, but it becomes your record in the end.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She said there could be instances where the license could be rejected if it is ripped or has coffee stains, and you may have to buy it all over again.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Having a wedding ceremony and obtaining your marriage certificate\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How quickly do we have to \u003cem>get \u003c/em>married after getting the license? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you have the license, you must get married within \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/\">90 days of the date\u003c/a>, and if you don’t, you’ll need to obtain a new license.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re looking to really speed up the process, you could get married in the County Clerk-Recorder’s office on the same day, depending on the county. However, remember some counties will require some kind of \u003ca href=\"https://apps.smcacre.org/marsched/schedule.aspx\">booking\u003c/a> or appointment for \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/have-civil-marriage-or-domestic-partnership-ceremony-city-hall\">a civil ceremony\u003c/a>, so don’t necessarily expect to get a “walk-in wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067535\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067535 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photographers pose their subjects for engagement and quinceañera photos on the grand staircase at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But, truly, as long as you have the necessary witnesses and someone qualified to officiate, a ceremony can be \u003cem>anywhere\u003c/em>: a backyard, a bar, a park, a movie theater.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember to bring the license and government identification to the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do I need witnesses? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have a public marriage license in California, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Marriage-Officiant-Frequently-Asked-Questions.aspx\">you need at least one witness and at most two witnesses\u003c/a>. They will sign your marriage certificate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Who can marry couples in California?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=FAM&division=3.&title=&part=3.&chapter=1.&article=\">California law\u003c/a>, a wedding officiant can be someone, such as a judge, specific county staff, religious figures like priests or rabbis or current and former elected officials.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/services/become-one-day-deputy-commissioner\">some counties\u003c/a>, anyone can be \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/become-deputy-marriage-commissioner-day\">a marriage commissioner\u003c/a> for a day for a specific couple as long as they are over 18, fill out paperwork and are willing to take an oath to uphold the state and national constitutions. The price for this process ranges from county to county and could be around $80 to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">$182\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Levy said the entities like \u003ca href=\"https://getordained.org/landing/get-ordained?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17232247909&gbraid=0AAAAADmMFGbYO-pl25X5g29z3BCIfgj12&gclid=CjwKCAjwxfjGBhAUEiwAKWPwDmoFDHZl8Cocq5vHjZw-uAOcF6kEPs-sy4e0ECVBXL5o4LwAPWW1BRoCEDoQAvD_BwE\">the Universal Life Church\u003c/a> — “which is basically a completely non-denominational, non-doctrinal church” — also allow people to get ordained and officiate weddings. While anyone over 18 can get ordained, there are specific rules to know for officiating a wedding. The Universal Life Church has \u003ca href=\"https://getordained.org/perform-a-marriage/california\">a guide on how to get ordained in the state of California\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12029447\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12029447 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Attorney Alexis Levy poses for a portrait outside the Civic Center Courthouse in San Francisco on Feb. 26, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Does location matter?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As long as you get married in California, you do not need to get married in the county where you got your marriage license, said Levy, or the county where you live.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if you want to get married in another \u003cem>state\u003c/em>, you should first get a marriage license in that state. For example, if you are having a Las Vegas wedding, you should obtain your marriage license in Nevada, since “their rules are very different than California’s,” cautioned Levy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>What paperwork do I need to do after the wedding? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Levy stressed that you must record the marriage certificate within 10 days of the wedding, with \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-married-san-francisco\">the county clerk where the certificate was issued\u003c/a>, which may well be a different county than the one in which you obtained your marriage license. Sometimes officiants will do the recording for you, which you should establish beforehand.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You should also request a copy of the marriage certificate from the county where it was issued.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>With all this in mind, what’s the lowest cost I could get married for?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the basics, you should factor in:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The cost of your marriage license, plus\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of any civil ceremony in a city hall, plus\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of any county official who’s marrying you\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of obtaining a copy of your marriage certificate\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">San Francisco County\u003c/a>, a public marriage license is $127, a civil marriage ceremony in the city hall is $111 and an additional copy of a marriage certificate is $17.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Another example, in \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/marriage-fees\">San Mateo County\u003c/a>, a public marriage license is $79, and a civil marriage ceremony is $65. A deputized marriage commissioner is $60. A duplicate of the marriage certificate is $5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067531\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067531 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Echo Xi (right) and Colin Kou pose for engagement photos at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“There [are] a lot of other costs that people associate with weddings. With rings and with outfits and venues and all that kind of stuff,” Levy said. “None of those are technically legally required to get married. They’re just common pieces of a wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if they wish, couples can find many ways of keeping costs down with personal touches. KQED’s own Adhiti Bandlamudi echoed this advice for couples to work out what’s truly important to them for their own big day. When it came to her own civil ceremony in 2021, Bandlamudi wore a white dress purchased from Anthropologie. Afterwards, she and her loved ones gathered together in the couple’s Richmond apartment, with takeout Indian pizza for catering. She even made her own gingerbread wedding cake.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For some couples, the emotional stress of weddings, the costs, the planning, the constant wondering of what other people and families are going to think can burden them. But, Bandlamudi said, “it’s \u003cem>your wedding\u003c/em>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She recommended that couples focus on what that day means to them: “Is it the vibes? Is it the music? Is that the food?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you and your partner have discussed the elements that truly matter to you, “focus on that, make it really special,” advised Bandlamudi.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>And finally: The serious questions to think about when planning your speedy wedding\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Will you and your new spouse be sharing health benefits?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Getting married is considered a “qualifying event,” Levy said, when an insurance policy can be changed. And technically, health benefits held through an employer — or through Covered California, the state’s own marketplace through the Affordable Care Act — “can be applied to the other spouse immediately upon marriage,” they said.[aside postID=news_12058992 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/CAT-%E2%80%94-DatingPan_Thumbnail-2000x1125.jpg']Generally, Levy said, employer-sponsored healthcare and Covered California will be granted retroactively to the date of the marriage, and for \u003ca href=\"https://www.coveredca.com/marketing-blog/just-married-health-insurance-for-your-spouse-and-you/\">Covered California\u003c/a>, you can enroll up to 60 days after the marriage. But “practically speaking, it may not actually go into effect \u003cem>immediately \u003c/em>because there’s always some lag time for the paperwork to process,” they added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bear in mind that some large employers are obligated to cover dependents with health care but \u003ca href=\"https://www.coveredca.com/marketing-blog/just-married-health-insurance-for-your-spouse-and-you/\">not a spouse\u003c/a>, and that you should always check these details before your marriage.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are on \u003ca href=\"https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/update-information.aspx\">Medi-Cal\u003c/a>, you will need to report your marriage on BenefitsCal or to your county 10 days after the event.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Does one or both of you want to change your name? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Rea said it is important for couples to consider if one or both spouses want to change their name, and to have made the decision before their marriage license appointment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If they do not do it right then and there, then they need to go to the courts to change it later,” Rea explained.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind, you can’t \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/change-name-on-marriage-license/\">change your \u003cem>first \u003c/em>name\u003c/a> through this method, but you can change \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ADA_The%20Name%20Equality%20Act%20of%202007%20(01-18).pdf\">your last name\u003c/a> in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The current last name of the other spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The last name of either spouse given at birth\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of last names\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>You can change \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ADA_The%20Name%20Equality%20Act%20of%202007%20(01-18).pdf\">your middle name\u003c/a> in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The current last name of either spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The last name of either spouse given at birth\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of the current middle name and the current last name of the person or spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of the current middle name and the birth last name of the person or spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Neither party can completely drop an existing middle name.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After the marriage ceremony, and after the marriage certificate is recorded with the county, you will then need to update your Social Security record and \u003ca href=\"https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/name-change/marriage\">your state and federal IDs\u003c/a>. To aid you, KQED has a thorough \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12029428/how-californians-can-start-changing-names-and-gender-markers-on-government-ids\">guide on name changes (and gender marker updates)\u003c/a> in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "There are many reasons couples choose to marry as quickly — and cheaply — as possible. From where to get your paperwork to the basic ceremony costs, here’s what to know.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>When I told KQED coworkers I was working on a guide to getting married quickly, my fundraising colleague Lilly Payne joked that she and her wife got married “for love and health insurance.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To be clear, the plan was always to \u003cem>get \u003c/em>married. “She’s the love of my life. She’s my favorite person,” Payne said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But she explained she had to accelerate her wedding plans in 2023 to be able to keep her then-fiancée insured before a big move the very same week. This rapid change in circumstance delayed the couple’s plan for a larger ceremony in favor of backyard vows conducted by an ordained neighbor, and witnessed by their friends and their dog, Oliver.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We didn’t have rings yet, but we had matching baseball caps,” Payne laughed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while this quick approach was admittedly “not what we were expecting at all,” said Payne, the tradeoff of cementing the couple’s legal partnership for their joint health and happiness was, for them, worth it.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>When a speedy wedding feels right\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Payne was by no means alone in choosing to formalize a partnership earlier than originally planned for practical reasons. In the United States, where access to good healthcare is often tied to employment or marriage, \u003ca href=\"https://www.psychologytoday.com/ca/blog/living-single/202103/its-not-just-love-some-stay-married-the-health-insurance\">health insurance can be a large motivator\u003c/a> — as can financial pressures in general.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People may choose elopements, that is, quicker or smaller ceremonies, for a variety of reasons, Sunnyvale \u003ca href=\"https://deniselillie.com/\">wedding planner\u003c/a> Denise Lillie said. She started seeing an increase in inquiries for these types of events during the height of the pandemic, when she observed many people wanting to make the commitment quickly — and celebrate later.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067145\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067145 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251028-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-01_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Denise Lillie at San Francicsco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Lillie said planners like her have also received requests from LGBTQ+ couples concerned about the future of marriage equality.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Even though the \u003ca href=\"https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/supreme-court/supreme-court-rejects-long-shot-effort-overturn-sex-marriage-ruling-rcna241113\">Supreme Court rejected the latest request\u003c/a> to overturn the U.S.’s landmark same-sex marriage ruling in early November, some couples have \u003ca href=\"https://time.com/7297484/obergefell-anniversary-trump-gay-marriage/\">expressed anxiety about the future of equal marriage\u003c/a> under President Donald Trump’s\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12023784/after-trumps-order-on-two-genders-trans-rights-groups-taking-action\"> second administration\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The aesthetics of a small, intimate wedding ceremony — sometimes followed up by a bigger party later down the line — has also gained in popularity among Gen-Z, Lillie said.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>And then, there are the undoubted financial pressures of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.wbur.org/cognoscenti/2024/05/22/wedding-planning-dress-cost-marriage-abbigail-shirk\">big traditional wedding\u003c/a>: According to \u003ca href=\"https://www.theknot.com/content/average-wedding-cost\">a 2025 survey of around 17,000 couples by wedding website \u003cem>The Knot\u003c/em>\u003c/a>\u003cem>, \u003c/em>the average cost of a wedding in the United States is $33,000. In San Francisco, it’s $51,500.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the midst of the holidays, also known as “engagement season” to wedding planners like Lillie, if you’re someone seeking to marry a partner as quickly and affordably as possible, you may be wondering: What are the logistics of getting married? What kind of paperwork do you actually need, and what are the timeframes — and costs?\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for the breakdown — and bear in mind that since the following doesn’t constitute legal advice, it’s always a good idea to speak to a lawyer about marriage licenses, name change options, finances and more when it comes to your own circumstances.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re looking for specific ways to make a small, simple ceremony feel special, check out our \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12067194/san-francisco-city-hall-wedding-ceremony-how-to-plan-small-simple-marriage\">advice from wedding experts\u003c/a> for making the most of your intimate ceremony, with particular tips for getting married at San Francisco City Hall.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The paperwork basics of getting married\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>To be formally married in California, you’ll need to obtain two documents:\u003c/p>\n\u003col>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>A marriage license\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>This document authorizes your marriage to take place in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003col start=\"2\">\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>A marriage certificate\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>This document then acts as the proof of your marriage “through the county and state’s eyes,” said Alexis Levy, a San Francisco-based lawyer who is licensed to marry people in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Getting your marriage license\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How do I get a marriage license in California?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A marriage license is essentially a permit to get married, although you won’t be legally married \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">until you have a ceremony.\u003c/a>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>To obtain a license, both partners should already be unmarried and over 18. (\u003ca href=\"https://www.sdcourt.ca.gov/sdcourt/juvenile3/juvenilemarriagelicenses3#:~:text=California%20law%20requires%20a%20person,the%20discretion%20of%20the%20court.\">People under 18\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applicant-cannot-physically-appear-person\">incarcerated\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applicant-cannot-physically-appear-person\">hospitalized\u003c/a> or \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--special-case-weddings\">in active military duty\u003c/a> have separate procedures for getting married.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In California, the process for obtaining a marriage license varies by county, and you’ll often be asked to complete an application online before picking up the license.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12058872\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12058872\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/230808-SanFranciscoCityHall-23-BL_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">City Hall is reflected in the Veterans Building in San Francisco on Aug. 8, 2023. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">San Francisco\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/applying-marriage-license\">San Mateo\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.napacounty.gov/1327/Marriage-License-Ceremony\">Napa County\u003c/a>, you need to book an appointment to pick up your license. In \u003ca href=\"https://www.acgov.org/auditor/clerk/bdm/marrlic.htm\">Alameda County\u003c/a>, the process is done through \u003ca href=\"https://auditor.alamedacountyca.gov/clerk-recorder-marriage-services-virtual/\">a video conference call\u003c/a>. In \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">Santa Clara\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/\">Contra Costa\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://www.arcc.marincounty.gov/services/marriage-birth-and-death/applying-marriage-license\">Marin\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://sonomacounty.gov/administrative-support-and-fiscal-services/clerk-recorder-assessor/clerk-recorder/clerk-services/marriage-license\">Sonoma\u003c/a>, and \u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.gov/government/treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk/county-clerk/marriage-license\">Solano\u003c/a>, marriage licenses are issued on a walk-in basis only.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>When going to the county clerk’s office to get your license, you usually will need to bring a valid government-issued ID. Both parties need to be present.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do I need to get a marriage license in the county I live in? Or the county I intend to get married in?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx\">You can actually get a marriage license from any California county\u003c/a>, as long as your marriage ceremony takes place in California. You don’t have to live in that county or get married in that county.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This may offer you some convenience and flexibility if, for example, appointments for marriage licenses are scarce in the county you live in.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Are there different kinds of marriage licenses?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are two different types of licenses that a couple can obtain, which impact costs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Most couples choose what’s called a “\u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\"> public marriage license\u003c/a>,” which allows the marriage to be \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">a public record\u003c/a> and requires a witness at the ceremony. These licenses cost around \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">$80\u003c/a> to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">$127\u003c/a>, depending on the county. Most couples \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">opt for this license\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067155\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12067155\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-160x90.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/WeddingRings_qed-1200x675.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A pair of wedding rings on June 27, 2013. \u003ccite>(Christoph Edel/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>A “confidential marriage license” means that the marriage record is available \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">only to the couple\u003c/a> or by \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Types-of-Marriage-Licenses-.aspx\">court order from the same county\u003c/a>. These ceremonies require no witnesses, but the couple must also already \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/get-marriage-license\">live together\u003c/a> to be eligible for a confidential marriage license. These licenses typically cost a little more than public marriage licenses: For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/marriage-birth-and-death/apply-marriage-license\">Santa Clara County\u003c/a>, the standard marriage license is $80, and the confidential marriage license is $83.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How quickly can I get a marriage license? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It depends on how busy the office is, but an appointment for a license can take \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-married-san-francisco\">as little as \u003c/a>\u003ca href=\"https://www.solanocounty.gov/government/treasurer-tax-collector-county-clerk/county-clerk/marriage-license\">half an hour\u003c/a>. A \u003ca href=\"https://media.api.sf.gov/documents/2018_Public_Marriage_License_Application_09.13.18_nPUtUdp.pdf\">marriage license application\u003c/a> itself is around a page and a half.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The real key about the marriage license is to keep it safe,” San Francisco County Clerk Diane Rea said. “I know it looks like a piece of paper, but it becomes your record in the end.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She said there could be instances where the license could be rejected if it is ripped or has coffee stains, and you may have to buy it all over again.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Having a wedding ceremony and obtaining your marriage certificate\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>How quickly do we have to \u003cem>get \u003c/em>married after getting the license? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you have the license, you must get married within \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/\">90 days of the date\u003c/a>, and if you don’t, you’ll need to obtain a new license.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re looking to really speed up the process, you could get married in the County Clerk-Recorder’s office on the same day, depending on the county. However, remember some counties will require some kind of \u003ca href=\"https://apps.smcacre.org/marsched/schedule.aspx\">booking\u003c/a> or appointment for \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/have-civil-marriage-or-domestic-partnership-ceremony-city-hall\">a civil ceremony\u003c/a>, so don’t necessarily expect to get a “walk-in wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067535\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067535 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-04-KQED-67-1536x1025.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Photographers pose their subjects for engagement and quinceañera photos on the grand staircase at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025.\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But, truly, as long as you have the necessary witnesses and someone qualified to officiate, a ceremony can be \u003cem>anywhere\u003c/em>: a backyard, a bar, a park, a movie theater.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Remember to bring the license and government identification to the ceremony.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Do I need witnesses? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you have a public marriage license in California, \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/Pages/Marriage-Officiant-Frequently-Asked-Questions.aspx\">you need at least one witness and at most two witnesses\u003c/a>. They will sign your marriage certificate.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Who can marry couples in California?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to \u003ca href=\"https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displayText.xhtml?lawCode=FAM&division=3.&title=&part=3.&chapter=1.&article=\">California law\u003c/a>, a wedding officiant can be someone, such as a judge, specific county staff, religious figures like priests or rabbis or current and former elected officials.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In \u003ca href=\"https://clerkrecorder.santaclaracounty.gov/services/become-one-day-deputy-commissioner\">some counties\u003c/a>, anyone can be \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/become-deputy-marriage-commissioner-day\">a marriage commissioner\u003c/a> for a day for a specific couple as long as they are over 18, fill out paperwork and are willing to take an oath to uphold the state and national constitutions. The price for this process ranges from county to county and could be around $80 to \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">$182\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Levy said the entities like \u003ca href=\"https://getordained.org/landing/get-ordained?gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=17232247909&gbraid=0AAAAADmMFGbYO-pl25X5g29z3BCIfgj12&gclid=CjwKCAjwxfjGBhAUEiwAKWPwDmoFDHZl8Cocq5vHjZw-uAOcF6kEPs-sy4e0ECVBXL5o4LwAPWW1BRoCEDoQAvD_BwE\">the Universal Life Church\u003c/a> — “which is basically a completely non-denominational, non-doctrinal church” — also allow people to get ordained and officiate weddings. While anyone over 18 can get ordained, there are specific rules to know for officiating a wedding. The Universal Life Church has \u003ca href=\"https://getordained.org/perform-a-marriage/california\">a guide on how to get ordained in the state of California\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12029447\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12029447 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/03/250226-NAMEGENDERMARKERS-03-BL-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Attorney Alexis Levy poses for a portrait outside the Civic Center Courthouse in San Francisco on Feb. 26, 2025. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Does location matter?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As long as you get married in California, you do not need to get married in the county where you got your marriage license, said Levy, or the county where you live.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if you want to get married in another \u003cem>state\u003c/em>, you should first get a marriage license in that state. For example, if you are having a Las Vegas wedding, you should obtain your marriage license in Nevada, since “their rules are very different than California’s,” cautioned Levy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>What paperwork do I need to do after the wedding? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Levy stressed that you must record the marriage certificate within 10 days of the wedding, with \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/step-by-step--get-married-san-francisco\">the county clerk where the certificate was issued\u003c/a>, which may well be a different county than the one in which you obtained your marriage license. Sometimes officiants will do the recording for you, which you should establish beforehand.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You should also request a copy of the marriage certificate from the county where it was issued.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>With all this in mind, what’s the lowest cost I could get married for?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For the basics, you should factor in:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The cost of your marriage license, plus\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of any civil ceremony in a city hall, plus\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of any county official who’s marrying you\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The cost of obtaining a copy of your marriage certificate\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>For example, in \u003ca href=\"https://www.sf.gov/information--fees-county-clerk-services\">San Francisco County\u003c/a>, a public marriage license is $127, a civil marriage ceremony in the city hall is $111 and an additional copy of a marriage certificate is $17.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Another example, in \u003ca href=\"https://smcacre.gov/county-clerk-recorder/marriage-fees\">San Mateo County\u003c/a>, a public marriage license is $79, and a civil marriage ceremony is $65. A deputized marriage commissioner is $60. A duplicate of the marriage certificate is $5.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12067531\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12067531 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/12/251029-SWIFT-SHOWGIRL-MD-05-KQED_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Echo Xi (right) and Colin Kou pose for engagement photos at San Francisco City Hall on Oct. 28, 2025. \u003ccite>(Martin do Nascimento/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“There [are] a lot of other costs that people associate with weddings. With rings and with outfits and venues and all that kind of stuff,” Levy said. “None of those are technically legally required to get married. They’re just common pieces of a wedding.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if they wish, couples can find many ways of keeping costs down with personal touches. KQED’s own Adhiti Bandlamudi echoed this advice for couples to work out what’s truly important to them for their own big day. When it came to her own civil ceremony in 2021, Bandlamudi wore a white dress purchased from Anthropologie. Afterwards, she and her loved ones gathered together in the couple’s Richmond apartment, with takeout Indian pizza for catering. She even made her own gingerbread wedding cake.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For some couples, the emotional stress of weddings, the costs, the planning, the constant wondering of what other people and families are going to think can burden them. But, Bandlamudi said, “it’s \u003cem>your wedding\u003c/em>.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She recommended that couples focus on what that day means to them: “Is it the vibes? Is it the music? Is that the food?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you and your partner have discussed the elements that truly matter to you, “focus on that, make it really special,” advised Bandlamudi.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>And finally: The serious questions to think about when planning your speedy wedding\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Will you and your new spouse be sharing health benefits?\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Getting married is considered a “qualifying event,” Levy said, when an insurance policy can be changed. And technically, health benefits held through an employer — or through Covered California, the state’s own marketplace through the Affordable Care Act — “can be applied to the other spouse immediately upon marriage,” they said.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Generally, Levy said, employer-sponsored healthcare and Covered California will be granted retroactively to the date of the marriage, and for \u003ca href=\"https://www.coveredca.com/marketing-blog/just-married-health-insurance-for-your-spouse-and-you/\">Covered California\u003c/a>, you can enroll up to 60 days after the marriage. But “practically speaking, it may not actually go into effect \u003cem>immediately \u003c/em>because there’s always some lag time for the paperwork to process,” they added.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bear in mind that some large employers are obligated to cover dependents with health care but \u003ca href=\"https://www.coveredca.com/marketing-blog/just-married-health-insurance-for-your-spouse-and-you/\">not a spouse\u003c/a>, and that you should always check these details before your marriage.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you are on \u003ca href=\"https://www.dhcs.ca.gov/Medi-Cal/Pages/update-information.aspx\">Medi-Cal\u003c/a>, you will need to report your marriage on BenefitsCal or to your county 10 days after the event.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Does one or both of you want to change your name? \u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Rea said it is important for couples to consider if one or both spouses want to change their name, and to have made the decision before their marriage license appointment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“If they do not do it right then and there, then they need to go to the courts to change it later,” Rea explained.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep in mind, you can’t \u003ca href=\"https://www.contracostavote.gov/countyclerk/ceremony-information/change-name-on-marriage-license/\">change your \u003cem>first \u003c/em>name\u003c/a> through this method, but you can change \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ADA_The%20Name%20Equality%20Act%20of%202007%20(01-18).pdf\">your last name\u003c/a> in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The current last name of the other spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The last name of either spouse given at birth\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of last names\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>You can change \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CHSI/CDPH%20Document%20Library/ADA_The%20Name%20Equality%20Act%20of%202007%20(01-18).pdf\">your middle name\u003c/a> in the following ways:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>The current last name of either spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>The last name of either spouse given at birth\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of the current middle name and the current last name of the person or spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>A combination of the current middle name and the birth last name of the person or spouse\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>Neither party can completely drop an existing middle name.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>After the marriage ceremony, and after the marriage certificate is recorded with the county, you will then need to update your Social Security record and \u003ca href=\"https://selfhelp.courts.ca.gov/name-change/marriage\">your state and federal IDs\u003c/a>. To aid you, KQED has a thorough \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12029428/how-californians-can-start-changing-names-and-gender-markers-on-government-ids\">guide on name changes (and gender marker updates)\u003c/a> in California.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "clipper-card-new-bart-caltrain-login-next-generation-discounts",
"title": "New Clipper Cards Are Here, With Big Perks for Riders. How to Manually Upgrade Yours",
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"headTitle": "New Clipper Cards Are Here, With Big Perks for Riders. How to Manually Upgrade Yours | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>Clipper, the electronic fare-payment system accepted by all of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/bay-area\">Bay Area\u003c/a>’s approximately two dozen transportation agencies, is rolling out new features Wednesday — designed to save riders money and modernize how they pay for transit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Dec. 10 launch of “Next-generation Clipper” brings perks like discounted transfers, the option to pay with a contactless credit or debit card and instant availability of funds added to accounts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if you’re already using a Clipper card to travel around the Bay, what do you need to know? Keep reading to learn how to take advantage of these new features as soon as possible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And a heads-up: the Wednesday launch has already been met with a few technical issues for Clipper users. Following the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s reports of what spokesperson John Goodwin called “a glitchy experience in the Clipper mobile app this morning” that meant “some customers have been unable to complete the \u003ca href=\"#IalreadyhaveaClippercardWhatdoIneedtodo\">process of upgrading their cards \u003c/a>to the next generation system,” as of Wednesday afternoon, “customers are still having difficulties using both the mobile app and the \u003ca href=\"https://www.clippercard.com/\">clippercard.com\u003c/a> website,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump straight to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#IalreadyhaveaClippercardWhatdoIneedtodo\">I already have a Clipper card. What do I need to do to upgrade?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>What is ‘Next-Generation Clipper’?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Features of these new Clipper cards include:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Free or discounted transfers\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Riders transferring from one transit agency to another will receive a discount of up to $2.85 on their second ride, and any subsequent rides with any transit agency — as long as that ride happens within two hours of the first ride. For example, if you transfer from SolTrans to BART, the fare for your BART ride would be $2.85 less than you would pay with the current version of Clipper.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Instant availability of added funds\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>No matter how you add money to your Clipper card, those funds will be available immediately with next-generation Clipper. Previously, users who added funds to their physical plastic card online or via the Clipper app have often waited several days before the new funds showed up on their account.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12043558\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12043558\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/20241204-BART-JY-003_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/20241204-BART-JY-003_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/20241204-BART-JY-003_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/20241204-BART-JY-003_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Passengers wait to board BART at Daly City Station in Daly City, California, on Dec. 4, 2024. \u003ccite>(Juliana Yamada/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Paying with contactless credit or debit card\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bay Area transit riders have been able to use a chip-enabled credit or debit card to pay for \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12052690/bart-fares-2025-credit-card-clipper-tap-and-ride-contactless\">BART since August\u003c/a>, but beginning on Dec. 10, all Bay Area transit agencies that accept Clipper (Caltrain, Golden Gate Transit, VTA, \u003ca href=\"https://www.clippercard.com/ClipperWeb/where-to-use.html\">the list \u003c/a>goes on …) will now also accept chip-enabled credit or debit cards as a form of payment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>New family accounts\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Users will be able to manage multiple registered Clipper cards through one account. This means, for example, a parent could add funds to their child’s Clipper card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apply for youth or senior cards online\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Riders will now have the option to apply for these discounted programs online, instead of just in person or over the phone.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"IalreadyhaveaClippercardWhatdoIneedtodo\">\u003c/a>If I already have a Clipper Card, what do I need to do differently?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>You can continue to use your current Clipper card as normal now that next-generation Clipper has launched — but if you want to access the new features as soon as possible, you should manually start the upgrade process for your existing card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This is because it may take eight to twelve weeks for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to update users’ cards, according to John Goodwin, a spokesperson for the MTC.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12017275\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12017275\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Caltrain Commuter Train at San Francisco 4th and King Street Station on Feb. 25, 2023. \u003ccite>(iStock/Getty Images Plus)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Goodwin said there are approximately 5 million Clipper cards in circulation, and the commission will do the upgrade in batches. That means that without taking action to upgrade first, some existing Clipper users could wait months for the new features to take effect.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So how can you now upgrade your Clipper card on or after Dec. 10? Goodwin advises Clipper users to initiate the upgrade to next-generation Clipper by logging in to \u003ca href=\"http://clippercard.com\">clippercard.com\u003c/a> or by calling Clipper’s customer service center at 877-878-8883 to start the upgrade process.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ If you want to be in ‘boarding group A’ on the next generation of Clipper, that’s the way to do it,” Goodwin advises.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may need some initial patience, however. On Wednesday morning, Goodwin told KQED by email that users had encountered “a glitchy experience in the Clipper mobile app this morning,” noting that “some customers have been unable to complete the \u003ca href=\"#IalreadyhaveaClippercardWhatdoIneedtodo\">process of upgrading their cards \u003c/a>to the next generation system.” And as of Wednesday afternoon, “customers are still having difficulties using both the mobile app and the \u003ca href=\"https://www.clippercard.com/\">clippercard.com\u003c/a> website,” Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>If I already have a Clipper Card, do I need to use Clipper 2.0?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>It’s not mandatory to initiate your next-generation Clipper upgrade early, as above.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But whether you do or not, eventually, your Clipper will be automatically upgraded to the new version.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How will I know if my card has been upgraded to Clipper 2.0?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The easiest way to check on the status of your Clipper card is to call Clipper Customer Service at 877-878-8883 and ask whether your card has been upgraded.[aside postID=news_12065601 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/08/250805_SPEED-CAMERAS-FOLO_-0007_GH-KQED.jpg']And if you’re told that it hasn’t been, that’s when you can ask the customer service agent you’re speaking with to go ahead and initiate the process. But Goodwin also advised that there is another way to find out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“When tapping a Clipper card that has been upgraded, the card reader on buses and light rail vehicles, at ferry terminals, and on train platforms will simply show ‘TRAVEL OK’ without the card balance,” Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A Clipper card that has not been upgraded will still show an account balance, something like “BALANCE 19.75,” according to Goodwin.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The only exception to this will be the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11997857/barts-new-evasion-resistant-gates-arrive-in-san-francisco-for-the-first-time\">new BART faregates\u003c/a>, which don’t display card balances at all, Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>If I only use my Clipper card in a mobile wallet, like Apple Wallet, do I still need to upgrade my “card”?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes. Customers with mobile Clipper cards still need to upgrade to a next-generation Clipper account to take advantage of the new benefits, confirmed Goodwin.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How much will I save with discounted transfers?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>You can estimate how much money you’ll save with discounted transfers from next-generation Clipper using \u003ca href=\"https://clipper2.hikingbytransit.com/\">this independent transit calculator\u003c/a> created by Evan Tschuy of the website \u003ca href=\"https://hikingbytransit.com/\">Hiking by Transit\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, a next-generation Clipper trip that uses three transit agencies, beginning with AC Transit, then transferring to BART, and then Muni, saves riders $5.20 per trip compared to the standard Clipper. The calculator estimates that a person who made that trip as part of their regular commute would save $2,600 over a year with the next-generation Clipper.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ When the system works that way, it feels like the system is thinking about the customer,” said Adina Levin, Executive Director of the Bay Area transit advocacy nonprofit Seamless Bay Area, which advocated for discounted transfers in next-generation Clipper. “We want the public transit system to not just be moving trains back and forth, or moving buses back and forth, but helping people get to where it is that they want to go.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Are there any drawbacks to paying with a credit or debit card instead of a next-generation Clipper card?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes, if you receive a discount on fares as a student, a person with disabilities, or a senior, you’ll still need to use your Clipper card to receive that price reduction. Riders who pay with a credit or debit card will be charged a full adult fare.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ We urge those customers to continue to use Clipper cards just as they have in the past. That way, those folks will get the discounts that they deserve,” Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040954\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040954\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A passenger tags their Clipper card at Montgomery BART Station in San Francisco on Dec. 4, 2024. \u003ccite>(Juliana Yamada/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Adina Levin with Seamless Bay Area said her group plans to continue advocating for the MTC to make those discounts available to qualifying riders who also want to pay by credit or debit card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ We want this convenience to be available to anyone, and not having it available to people who get discounts is insufficiently fair,” Levin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People who pay with a credit or debit card will still get transfer discounts, the same as next-generation Clipper card users.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Wait — I thought Bay Area transit agencies were facing a huge budget deficit. Why are they offering discounts on transfers?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>It’s true that Bay Area transit agencies like BART and Muni are facing \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12055129/riders-rally-to-keep-bay-area-transit-loan-running-on-time\">budget deficits\u003c/a> set to balloon to over $300 million in the next fiscal year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Transit officials say offering discounted transfers is expected to increase ridership and revenue for transit agencies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>”Our expectation is that transit agencies won’t [lose money], but we’ll just have to wait for the numbers to come in,” Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Goodwin added that the transit officials are treating discounted transfers as a pilot program, which will be reviewed after 18 to 24 months.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What future upgrades might be coming to Clipper?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The MTC said other features like paying for \u003ca href=\"https://www.futureofclipper.com/\">paratransit \u003c/a>with Clipper, mobile group tickets that enable groups of people to pay for their fares using just one phone, and transit agency promotions with discounted fares are all in the works.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is, however, no set date for the launch of those features yet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "Next generation Clipper, or Clipper 2.0, rolls out Dec. 10 with improved features like discounted transfers and instant fund availability. Here’s how to get set up. ",
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"title": "New Clipper Cards Are Here, With Big Perks for Riders. How to Manually Upgrade Yours | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>Clipper, the electronic fare-payment system accepted by all of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/bay-area\">Bay Area\u003c/a>’s approximately two dozen transportation agencies, is rolling out new features Wednesday — designed to save riders money and modernize how they pay for transit.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The Dec. 10 launch of “Next-generation Clipper” brings perks like discounted transfers, the option to pay with a contactless credit or debit card and instant availability of funds added to accounts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But if you’re already using a Clipper card to travel around the Bay, what do you need to know? Keep reading to learn how to take advantage of these new features as soon as possible.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And a heads-up: the Wednesday launch has already been met with a few technical issues for Clipper users. Following the Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s reports of what spokesperson John Goodwin called “a glitchy experience in the Clipper mobile app this morning” that meant “some customers have been unable to complete the \u003ca href=\"#IalreadyhaveaClippercardWhatdoIneedtodo\">process of upgrading their cards \u003c/a>to the next generation system,” as of Wednesday afternoon, “customers are still having difficulties using both the mobile app and the \u003ca href=\"https://www.clippercard.com/\">clippercard.com\u003c/a> website,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump straight to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#IalreadyhaveaClippercardWhatdoIneedtodo\">I already have a Clipper card. What do I need to do to upgrade?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>What is ‘Next-Generation Clipper’?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Features of these new Clipper cards include:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Free or discounted transfers\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Riders transferring from one transit agency to another will receive a discount of up to $2.85 on their second ride, and any subsequent rides with any transit agency — as long as that ride happens within two hours of the first ride. For example, if you transfer from SolTrans to BART, the fare for your BART ride would be $2.85 less than you would pay with the current version of Clipper.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Instant availability of added funds\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>No matter how you add money to your Clipper card, those funds will be available immediately with next-generation Clipper. Previously, users who added funds to their physical plastic card online or via the Clipper app have often waited several days before the new funds showed up on their account.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12043558\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12043558\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/20241204-BART-JY-003_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/20241204-BART-JY-003_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/20241204-BART-JY-003_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/20241204-BART-JY-003_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Passengers wait to board BART at Daly City Station in Daly City, California, on Dec. 4, 2024. \u003ccite>(Juliana Yamada/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Paying with contactless credit or debit card\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Bay Area transit riders have been able to use a chip-enabled credit or debit card to pay for \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12052690/bart-fares-2025-credit-card-clipper-tap-and-ride-contactless\">BART since August\u003c/a>, but beginning on Dec. 10, all Bay Area transit agencies that accept Clipper (Caltrain, Golden Gate Transit, VTA, \u003ca href=\"https://www.clippercard.com/ClipperWeb/where-to-use.html\">the list \u003c/a>goes on …) will now also accept chip-enabled credit or debit cards as a form of payment.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>New family accounts\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Users will be able to manage multiple registered Clipper cards through one account. This means, for example, a parent could add funds to their child’s Clipper card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Apply for youth or senior cards online\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Riders will now have the option to apply for these discounted programs online, instead of just in person or over the phone.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"IalreadyhaveaClippercardWhatdoIneedtodo\">\u003c/a>If I already have a Clipper Card, what do I need to do differently?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>You can continue to use your current Clipper card as normal now that next-generation Clipper has launched — but if you want to access the new features as soon as possible, you should manually start the upgrade process for your existing card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This is because it may take eight to twelve weeks for the Metropolitan Transportation Commission to update users’ cards, according to John Goodwin, a spokesperson for the MTC.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12017275\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12017275\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/12/CalTrainSFGetty-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Caltrain Commuter Train at San Francisco 4th and King Street Station on Feb. 25, 2023. \u003ccite>(iStock/Getty Images Plus)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Goodwin said there are approximately 5 million Clipper cards in circulation, and the commission will do the upgrade in batches. That means that without taking action to upgrade first, some existing Clipper users could wait months for the new features to take effect.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So how can you now upgrade your Clipper card on or after Dec. 10? Goodwin advises Clipper users to initiate the upgrade to next-generation Clipper by logging in to \u003ca href=\"http://clippercard.com\">clippercard.com\u003c/a> or by calling Clipper’s customer service center at 877-878-8883 to start the upgrade process.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ If you want to be in ‘boarding group A’ on the next generation of Clipper, that’s the way to do it,” Goodwin advises.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You may need some initial patience, however. On Wednesday morning, Goodwin told KQED by email that users had encountered “a glitchy experience in the Clipper mobile app this morning,” noting that “some customers have been unable to complete the \u003ca href=\"#IalreadyhaveaClippercardWhatdoIneedtodo\">process of upgrading their cards \u003c/a>to the next generation system.” And as of Wednesday afternoon, “customers are still having difficulties using both the mobile app and the \u003ca href=\"https://www.clippercard.com/\">clippercard.com\u003c/a> website,” Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>If I already have a Clipper Card, do I need to use Clipper 2.0?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>It’s not mandatory to initiate your next-generation Clipper upgrade early, as above.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But whether you do or not, eventually, your Clipper will be automatically upgraded to the new version.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How will I know if my card has been upgraded to Clipper 2.0?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The easiest way to check on the status of your Clipper card is to call Clipper Customer Service at 877-878-8883 and ask whether your card has been upgraded.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>And if you’re told that it hasn’t been, that’s when you can ask the customer service agent you’re speaking with to go ahead and initiate the process. But Goodwin also advised that there is another way to find out.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“When tapping a Clipper card that has been upgraded, the card reader on buses and light rail vehicles, at ferry terminals, and on train platforms will simply show ‘TRAVEL OK’ without the card balance,” Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A Clipper card that has not been upgraded will still show an account balance, something like “BALANCE 19.75,” according to Goodwin.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The only exception to this will be the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11997857/barts-new-evasion-resistant-gates-arrive-in-san-francisco-for-the-first-time\">new BART faregates\u003c/a>, which don’t display card balances at all, Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>If I only use my Clipper card in a mobile wallet, like Apple Wallet, do I still need to upgrade my “card”?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes. Customers with mobile Clipper cards still need to upgrade to a next-generation Clipper account to take advantage of the new benefits, confirmed Goodwin.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How much will I save with discounted transfers?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>You can estimate how much money you’ll save with discounted transfers from next-generation Clipper using \u003ca href=\"https://clipper2.hikingbytransit.com/\">this independent transit calculator\u003c/a> created by Evan Tschuy of the website \u003ca href=\"https://hikingbytransit.com/\">Hiking by Transit\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For example, a next-generation Clipper trip that uses three transit agencies, beginning with AC Transit, then transferring to BART, and then Muni, saves riders $5.20 per trip compared to the standard Clipper. The calculator estimates that a person who made that trip as part of their regular commute would save $2,600 over a year with the next-generation Clipper.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ When the system works that way, it feels like the system is thinking about the customer,” said Adina Levin, Executive Director of the Bay Area transit advocacy nonprofit Seamless Bay Area, which advocated for discounted transfers in next-generation Clipper. “We want the public transit system to not just be moving trains back and forth, or moving buses back and forth, but helping people get to where it is that they want to go.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Are there any drawbacks to paying with a credit or debit card instead of a next-generation Clipper card?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes, if you receive a discount on fares as a student, a person with disabilities, or a senior, you’ll still need to use your Clipper card to receive that price reduction. Riders who pay with a credit or debit card will be charged a full adult fare.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ We urge those customers to continue to use Clipper cards just as they have in the past. That way, those folks will get the discounts that they deserve,” Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12040954\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12040954\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/05/20241204-BART-JY-028_qed-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A passenger tags their Clipper card at Montgomery BART Station in San Francisco on Dec. 4, 2024. \u003ccite>(Juliana Yamada/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Adina Levin with Seamless Bay Area said her group plans to continue advocating for the MTC to make those discounts available to qualifying riders who also want to pay by credit or debit card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“ We want this convenience to be available to anyone, and not having it available to people who get discounts is insufficiently fair,” Levin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>People who pay with a credit or debit card will still get transfer discounts, the same as next-generation Clipper card users.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Wait — I thought Bay Area transit agencies were facing a huge budget deficit. Why are they offering discounts on transfers?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>It’s true that Bay Area transit agencies like BART and Muni are facing \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12055129/riders-rally-to-keep-bay-area-transit-loan-running-on-time\">budget deficits\u003c/a> set to balloon to over $300 million in the next fiscal year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Transit officials say offering discounted transfers is expected to increase ridership and revenue for transit agencies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>”Our expectation is that transit agencies won’t [lose money], but we’ll just have to wait for the numbers to come in,” Goodwin said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Goodwin added that the transit officials are treating discounted transfers as a pilot program, which will be reviewed after 18 to 24 months.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>What future upgrades might be coming to Clipper?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The MTC said other features like paying for \u003ca href=\"https://www.futureofclipper.com/\">paratransit \u003c/a>with Clipper, mobile group tickets that enable groups of people to pay for their fares using just one phone, and transit agency promotions with discounted fares are all in the works.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There is, however, no set date for the launch of those features yet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "student-loan-repayment-changes-save-plan-repayments-income-driven-default-trump-administration",
"title": "What to Know About Repaying Student Loans, as Delinquency in California Skyrockets",
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"headTitle": "What to Know About Repaying Student Loans, as Delinquency in California Skyrockets | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>More than 350,000 Californians are now behind on their student loan payments — the highest delinquency rate for any type of debt in over two decades, according to the \u003ca href=\"https://capolicylab.org/news/student-loan-delinquencies-surging-especially-for-older-borrowers/\">California Policy Lab\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s also the highest rate of delinquencies that UC Berkeley California Policy Lab executive director Evan White said he’s seen in the data “for any credit product, including student loans, auto loans, mortgage loans, credit cards” since 2004.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The missed payments are a symptom of a financial safety net that was already frayed before the COVID-19 pandemic greatly disrupted loan repayments. And now, that safety net is unravelling as \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/resource/obbba-increased-costs-fact-sheet/\">borrowers face higher bills\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/idr-court-actions\">fewer repayment options\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/10/31/2025-19729/william-d-ford-federal-direct-loan-direct-loan-program\">limited eligibility for loan forgiveness programs\u003c/a> amid a system that even experts call confusing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The federal student loan system is broken,” said Mike Pierce, Executive Director and co-founder of the legal advocacy group \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/\">Protect Borrowers\u003c/a>. “It’s been broken for decades, and lawmakers have failed to deal with that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Amid this uncertainty, here’s what to know if you’re a borrower in the process of paying off student debt — from the changes to federal loan forgiveness and income-driven repayment plans to the latest legal proceedings and how they might affect you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump straight to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#Whataremyoptionsforincomedrivenrepayment\">What are my options for income-driven repayment?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#IworkforanonprofitorganizationCanIstillqualifyforPublicServiceLoanForgivenessPSLF\">I work for a nonprofit organization. Can I still qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#ImenrolledintheSAVEplanWhatshouldIbedoing\">I’m enrolled in the SAVE plan. What should I be doing?\u003c/a> \u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#HowwilltheOneBigBeautifulBillimpactmyloans\">How will the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ impact my loans?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#IthinkmyloanservicermadeamistakeWhatshouldIdo\">I think my loan servicer made a mistake. What should I do?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>How did my student loans get so complicated?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/20/us/politics/coronavirus-student-loans-education-testing.html\">the federal government paused student loan payments and interest\u003c/a>, giving borrowers an unprecedented break that lasted over three years. Many Californians used that breathing room to pay down credit card debt, build up savings, and even open new lines of credit. Financial wellness metrics improved across the board, according to White and the California Policy Lab.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But as pandemic-era supports ended and loan payments restarted, that relief has now given way to widespread confusion. Borrowers faced mixed messages about repayment deadlines, forgiveness options and which income-driven plans they could actually enroll in. \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/13/business/biden-student-loans.html\">Federal loan forgiveness became a political hot potato during and after the 2020 election\u003c/a>, with \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/05/business/student-loan-pause-pandemic.html\">repayment deadlines rescheduled under President Donald Trump’s first term … and again\u003c/a> under President Joe Biden. And each delay created more uncertainty about when payments would resume and whether borrowers might qualify for relief, said Mike Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12061284\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12061284\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/033_KQED_SanFrancisco_SFSU_03112020_6923_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/033_KQED_SanFrancisco_SFSU_03112020_6923_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/033_KQED_SanFrancisco_SFSU_03112020_6923_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/033_KQED_SanFrancisco_SFSU_03112020_6923_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">San Francisco State University on March 11, 2020. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Then the legal battles began. The SAVE plan used by millions of student loan borrowers — along with several income-driven repayment options that predated this Biden-era plan — became embroiled in court challenges that have continued to drag on for months.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Now, student loan borrowers have found themselves stuck in limbo for most of 2025: unable to enroll in affordable repayment plans, unsure whether they qualify for loan forgiveness and unclear about the latest and most accurate guidance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The result is a system where even borrowers who \u003cem>want \u003c/em>to pay are struggling to get a handle on their loans, according to Jonathan Glater, a law professor at the University of California, Berkeley, and co-founder of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.slli.org/\">Student Loan Law Initiative\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“One of the criticisms of this whole complicated edifice that we’ve got is that it’s very, very difficult for borrowers to navigate,” said Glater. “It is way too complicated.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Which borrowers are most affected right now?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Lower-income student loan borrowers are “mostly worse off than they were before the pandemic happened,” said the California Policy Lab’s White, who’s also a member of the research team that created and maintains the \u003ca href=\"https://capolicylab.org/california-credit-dashboard/\">California Credit Dashboard\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Older borrowers are the most likely to be impacted in California, White added. According to the California Policy Lab. \u003ca href=\"https://capolicylab.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Student-Loan-Delinquencies-Surging.pdf\">One possible reason for higher delinquency rates among older borrowers is that they typically owe a larger monthly payment\u003c/a> on their student loans. [aside postID=mindshift_65377 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2025/03/capossela-npr-book-education-v2-final-1020x680.jpeg']The average Boomer with student debt owes $150 per month in student loan payments — 2.4 times that of the average Millennial ($62/month) and 5.8 times that of the average Gen Zer ($26/month). These loans may have been used to pay for their own education, one or more children’s education — or a combination.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The financial burden hitting older borrowers might also be attributed in part to the way the federal loan repayment system works, said White.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Loan repayment plans are designed to limit the amount of payments borrowers make to a fixed period of time. But after a long pandemic pause, borrowers may be resuming their payments with fewer monthly payments remaining — and a balance that hasn’t diminished, or has actually grown from interest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The result: higher monthly payments than what borrowers may have been paying even prior to pandemic assistance.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"Whataremyoptionsforincomedrivenrepayment\">\u003c/a>What are my options for income-driven repayment?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>After a two-month freeze, \u003ca href=\"https://studentloanborrowerassistance.org/idr-application-is-back-up/#2\">the Department of Education is now processing applications for income-driven repayment (IDR) plans again\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are currently four IDR plans available to borrowers with federal student loans. (Federal loans generally include “direct” or “federal” in the title, but you can find \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/repayment/plans/income-driven#eligibility\">a complete list of eligible loan types here\u003c/a>, to make sure yours qualifies.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047499\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12047499 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/DepartofEducation.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/DepartofEducation.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/DepartofEducation-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/DepartofEducation-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The U.S. Department of Education is seen before the Safeguard Students, Empower Education Rally & Press Conference on April 29, 2025, in Washington, D.C. \u003ccite>(Pete Kiehart for The Washington Post via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>It’s important to carefully compare plans, as each borrower’s situation is different. You can use this \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/loan-simulator/\">Federal Student Loan Simulator\u003c/a> to calculate and compare your monthly payments under each of the available federal IDR plans.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>All IDR plans base your monthly loan payment on a percentage of your discretionary income, in combination with your family size. The exact percentage of your income and how long you will have to repay varies by plan.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can find \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/repayment/plans/income-driven#repayment-period\">detailed information about all federal IDR plans here\u003c/a>, but here are the highlights at a glance:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Pay As You Earn (PAYE) Repayment Plan\u003c/strong>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Capped at 10% of discretionary income, repaid over 20 years\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>New Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan\u003c/strong>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>For eligible loans borrowed \u003cem>after \u003c/em>July 1, 2014\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Capped at 10% of discretionary income, repaid over 20 years\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Old Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan\u003c/strong>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>For eligible loans borrowed \u003cem>before \u003c/em>July 1, 2014\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Capped at 15% of discretionary income, repaid over 25 years\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan\u003c/strong>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Capped at 20% of discretionary income, repaid over 25 years\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/idr/\">Apply for an income-driven plan for the first time, or switch between plans, here\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The benefits of income-driven repayment plans\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For some people, payments on an IDR plan can be as low as $0 per month. Others may be able to take advantage of another perk — exemption from interest on their loans — if their income-adjusted payments wouldn’t cover the interest accruing on their student loans each month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>IDR plans also operate on a fixed schedule, meaning you’re committed to repaying them over a period of 20 or 25 years — \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/mindshift/65643/how-is-your-student-loan-repayment-affected-by-the-one-big-beautiful-bill\">although the new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) will offer a 30-year repayment period \u003c/a>beginning in 2028. While paying several decades of loan payments may not sound like your idea of a great time, any remaining loan balance could be forgiven outright if your federal student loans aren’t fully repaid by the end of this period.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The drawbacks of income-driven repayment plans\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Before you celebrate loan forgiveness, be sure to read the fine print. Loan balances forgiven at the end of an IDR repayment period are actually subject to income tax — leading savvy borrowers to save for the \u003ca href=\"https://tax.thomsonreuters.com/news/changes-ahead-for-taxpayers-with-discharged-student-loan-debt/\">“tax bomb” that will accompany their emancipation from student debt\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you enroll in an IDR plan, you should also set a reminder to update, or “recertify,” your income and family size every year, even if there has been no change.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12049948\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12049948\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/AP25195724697543-scaled-e1764803931499.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Education Secretary Linda McMahon speaks during a Senate Appropriations hearing, Tuesday, June 3, 2025, on Capitol Hill in Washington. \u003ccite>(Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP Photo)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The consequences for borrowers on IDR plans who don’t recertify their incomes are strict, as you could be removed from your plan and placed on an alternative plan where monthly payments are \u003cem>not \u003c/em>based on income, leading to higher monthly payments and resumed interest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while you can reapply for your preferred IDR plan, recertification issues can cause delays in loan forgiveness, not to mention financial stress. The Department of Education warns that \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/help-center/answers/article/status-of-idr-plan-application\">new applications for IDR plans typically take 30 days to process\u003c/a> – leaving you on the hook for any student loan payments and interest accrued in the meantime.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/idr/\">Apply for an income-driven plan for the first time, or switch between plans, here\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"IworkforanonprofitorganizationCanIstillqualifyforPublicServiceLoanForgivenessPSLF\">\u003c/a>I work for a nonprofit organization. Can I still qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you work for a nonprofit or government employer, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) can be a powerful tool for managing your student debt.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Here’s how it works: make 120 qualifying monthly payments over a 10-year period while working full-time for a qualifying employer, and any remaining federal student loan debt gets forgiven — without that “tax bomb” of income-driven repayment plans.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>PSLF was created by Congress in 2007 specifically to help recruit and retain talented people in public service jobs that often pay less than private sector positions. More than 1 million public servants, from teachers, nurses and social workers to librarians and public defenders, had their loans forgiven through this program under the Biden administration. [aside postID=news_11963857 hero='https://ww2.kqed.org/app/uploads/sites/10/2023/10/GettyImages-1364803352-qut-1020x680.jpg']Now, \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/07/us/politics/trump-executive-order-student-loan-forgiveness.html\">President Donald Trump’s second administration is seeking to change who qualifies\u003c/a>. An executive order signed by Trump in March and set to take effect July 1, 2026, would allow the education secretary — not the courts or Congress — to deny loan forgiveness to workers whose employers engage in activities deemed to have a “substantial illegal purpose.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/10/31/2025-19729/william-d-ford-federal-direct-loan-direct-loan-program\">examples listed in the rule include\u003c/a> “aiding and abetting violations of Federal immigration laws” and providing certain types of gender-affirming care. San Francisco and several other cities are suing to block this rule.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Protect Borrowers has been involved in filing several of these lawsuits, claiming that restricting public service loan forgiveness is “an attempt to target organizations and jurisdictions whose missions and policies do not align with [the Trump administration’s] political positions on immigration, race, gender, free speech, and public protest.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The Trump administration recognized that there’s real power in the federal government, because it is the creditor for 40 million people,” Pierce said. He is concerned that public service workers could lose access to loan forgiveness simply because their employer resisted federal immigration enforcement or maintained diversity, equity and inclusion programs — even though those local policies may be perfectly legal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So amid this legal action, what should you do if you’re working toward PSLF forgiveness?\u003c/p>\n\u003col>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong> Don’t wait\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>Submit your employment certification forms now to get credit for the payments you’ve already made.\u003c/p>\n\u003col start=\"2\">\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong> Keep meticulous records \u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>Your employment, every loan payment you’ve made — collect screenshots, confirmation emails, everything.\u003c/p>\n\u003col start=\"3\">\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong> Work extra-fast if you’re close to hitting that 120-payment mark\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>Prioritize reaching that threshold before the July 2026 deadline when this rule takes effect.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re currently enrolled in SAVE, consider switching to another income-driven repayment plan to resume qualifying PSLF payments.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You should also pay attention to how this lawsuit unfolds, said Pierce. \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/litigation/pslf-lawsuit/\">The plaintiffs argue the Education Department is overstepping its authority and rewriting what Congress clearly defined as “public service” — any government job or 501(c)(3) nonprofit\u003c/a>. The courts will ultimately decide whether the secretary has the power to add political litmus tests to a program Congress designed to support all public service workers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the meantime, protect yourself by documenting everything and staying informed about your rights.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"ImenrolledintheSAVEplanWhatshouldIbedoing\">\u003c/a>I’m enrolled in the SAVE plan. Should I switch to another income-driven repayment option?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The SAVE plan was designed to be a lifeline — the most affordable income-driven repayment option the federal government had offered to date.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Promising shorter repayment periods, more generous income calculations that would lower monthly payments and a faster path to loan forgiveness for low-income borrowers, \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/new-court-filing-reveals-backlog-of-2-million-borrower-payment-plan-applications/#:~:text=Background,district%20court%20for%20further%20proceedings.\">the SAVE plan had eight million enrollees\u003c/a> as of May 2025.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11955722\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11955722\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED.jpg\" alt='People hold signs reading \"Cancel Student Debt Now!\" in front of the columned facade of the supreme court.' width=\"2000\" height=\"1302\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-800x521.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-1020x664.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-160x104.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-1536x1000.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-1920x1250.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Student debt relief activists participate in a rally at the U.S. Supreme Court on June 30, 2023, in Washington, D.C. \u003ccite>(Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But Missouri and several other Republican-led states filed lawsuits challenging the SAVE repayment plan and arguing that the Biden administration had overstepped its authority beginning in spring 2024 — and \u003ca href=\"https://studentloanborrowerassistance.org/part-2-the-current-impact-on-borrowers-of-lawsuits-challenging-the-save-plan-and-the-removal-of-idr-applications/\">SAVE has been frozen in legal limbo ever since\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re enrolled in SAVE, here’s what’s happening with your loans right now: You haven’t been required to make payments since last summer while the case winds through the courts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You’re in what’s known as “forbearance,” and while those months do count toward eventual income-driven repayment forgiveness (typically after 20 to 25 years), they don’t count as qualifying payments toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And as of August, interest has resumed accruing — which means your balance will continue to grow each month, unless you make payments to offset the interest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For borrowers working toward PSLF who are close to the 120-payment finish line, staying in SAVE means you’re losing time: those paused months won’t count, and \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service/public-service-loan-forgiveness-buyback\">you may need to use a “buy back” option later to pay for these months retroactively\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The good news? You have options. Applications for other income-driven repayment plans — Income-Based Repayment, Pay as You Earn, and Income-Contingent Repayment — are now open again after a months-long delay. If you’re pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness, switching to one of these plans means your payments will start counting toward that 120-payment requirement again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re simply trying to stop your balance from ballooning, moving to an active repayment plan gives you more control. The application process may take a few weeks, but for many borrowers — especially those close to PSLF eligibility or watching their interest pile up — making the switch may be worth it to get back on track.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"HowwilltheOneBigBeautifulBillimpactmyloans\">\u003c/a>How will the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ impact my loans?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you’re a federal student loan borrower, the \u003ca href=\"https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/text\">H.R.1 budget, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act\u003c/a>, that passed in July, included changes to the federal loan system that could impact you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The SAVE plan is being shut down by July 1, 2028 — but so are two other income-driven repayment plans: Pay as You Earn (PAYE) and Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR). If you’re currently enrolled in either of these plans, you’ll need to switch before that deadline.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047827\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047827\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/npr.brightspotcdn-copy-7.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1800\" height=\"1200\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/npr.brightspotcdn-copy-7.jpg 1800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/npr.brightspotcdn-copy-7-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/npr.brightspotcdn-copy-7-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1800px) 100vw, 1800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">President Trump bangs a gavel after signing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act at the White House on July 4. \u003ccite>(Brendan Smialowski/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan, a Reagan-era program that was implemented by Congress, will remain available for current borrowers. Pierce said it’s worth considering now, especially since it offers loan forgiveness after 20 or 25 years instead of the 30 years required under the Trump administration’s proposed replacement plan.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) won’t be ready until next year, and key details haven’t been revealed yet — leaving borrowers with limited information to plan ahead.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The spending bill includes provisions that also affect future students: new borrowers taking out loans after July 1, 2026, will not have access to traditional income-driven repayment plans at all. They’ll be limited to the new RAP or a standard fixed-payment plan, both with far less flexibility than previous options. [aside postID=mindshift_65643 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/23/2025/07/gettyimages-1676464096-2000x1220.jpeg']The law also introduces borrowing caps for graduate and professional degree students ($20,500 annually, $100,000 lifetime) and parents taking out loans to assist with a child’s education ($20,000 per year, $65,000 per child).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Student loan experts worry these caps will push more borrowers toward private lenders, which charge higher interest rates, offer less favorable terms and don’t qualify for any income-driven repayment or forgiveness programs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You’re pushing people into the private student loan market and away from safe federal student loans with good consumer protections,” said Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to Jonathan Glater, H.R.1 does nothing to address why student debt became a crisis in the first place: skyrocketing college tuition costs. By capping federal borrowing without tackling affordability, the law may simply shift the burden from federal loans to private debt, he warned — or price students out of higher education entirely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My fear is that what we are seeing is a lifting of the ladder of higher ed opportunity higher, so it’ll be out of reach for more people,” said Glater.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re planning for graduate school or helping a child pay for college, factor these new limits into your timeline and consider whether starting \u003cem>before \u003c/em>July 2026 would give you access to more generous borrowing options.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And document everything — experts caution that, considering the sheer volume of changes, and the Education Department operating with reduced staff, keeping detailed records of your loans, payments, and applications is more important than ever.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"IthinkmyloanservicermadeamistakeWhatshouldIdo\">\u003c/a>I think my loan servicer made a mistake. What should I do?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Your federal student loans might be owned by the government, but they’re managed by private loan servicing companies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It is a black mark on the student loan system that people need to know what a student loan servicer is,” Pierce said. These are companies contracted to administer and collect your loans, handle your payments, process paperwork for income-driven repayment plans and answer your questions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11955727\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11955727 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED.jpg\" alt='A person with long hair and a black t-shirt holds up a bright yellow sign reading \"Cancel Student Debt\" amidst others doing similar.' width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A demonstrator holds a “Cancel Student Debt” sign outside of the Supreme Court of the United States after the nation’s high court stuck down President Biden’s student debt relief program in Washington, D.C. on June 30, 2023. \u003ccite>(Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The problem? In their role as the middleman between you and the Department of Education, several \u003ca href=\"https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-bans-navient-from-federal-student-loan-servicing-and-orders-the-company-to-pay-120-million-for-wide-ranging-student-lending-failures/\">loan servicers have made serious administrative errors\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.aft.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2024/AFT%20v.%20MOHELA_Complaint%2007.22.2024.pdf\">have been targets of class action lawsuits for mishandling borrower accounts\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We hear the worst stories about lost paperwork, changing balances, the rules being rewritten for people right in the middle of paying their loans back when those loan companies change,” said Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’ve been repaying loans for a while, you’ve probably experienced at least one transfer of your debt from one servicer to another. According to Pierce, each transfer creates an opportunity for information to get lost, payment counts to be recorded incorrectly or for the servicer to lose contact with you entirely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you think your loan servicer made a mistake — whether it’s incorrect payment counts, wrong balance information, or problems with your repayment plan — don’t just accept it, urged Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Protect Borrowers has detailed resources on their website explaining what steps to take when your servicer gets it wrong, which include:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Start by documenting everything\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Take screenshots of your account, save emails and letters, and keep records of every phone call, said Pierce — including the date, time, and name of the representative.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>File a formal complaint with your servicer first\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>…but be ready to escalate to the \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/feedback-ombudsman\">Federal Student Aid Ombudsman\u003c/a> if the issue isn’t resolved.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>California borrowers have an additional resource: the state’s dedicated \u003ca href=\"https://dfpi.ca.gov/consumers/student-loans/contact-us/\">Student Loan Ombudsman\u003c/a>, who can help navigate disputes and advocate on your behalf.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Be proactive and persistent\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Loan servicers handle millions of accounts, and mistakes happen — but those mistakes can cost you thousands of dollars or years of progress toward forgiveness if they’re not caught and corrected, said Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Don’t assume your servicer has correct information for you\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>…especially after a transfer. Regularly check your account, verify your payment counts match your records, and if something looks off, speak up immediately. The more documentation you have, the easier it will be to prove an error and get it fixed, said Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>His advice for borrowers “that are just stuck” is to go to your lawmaker and \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/resource/protect-borrowers-congressional-casework-tool/\">open up a case with your local member of Congress or your state senator\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There’s only so much you can do with the current law, but for people that are stuck waiting on hold … or feel like they’ve been lied to by a student loan company, often going to your member of congress and opening up a case with them is the best way forward here,” he said, adding that Congressional casework can cut through red tape when the Education Department is overwhelmed or unresponsive.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>I need help navigating my student loans, but I’m not hearing back. Why?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12031831/i-have-student-loans-what-should-i-do-during-these-department-of-education-cuts\">The Department of Education has been hit hard by cuts under the Trump administration;\u003c/a> its workforce was slashed in half earlier this year, \u003ca href=\"https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-initiates-reduction-force\">dropping from about 4,100 employees to roughly 2,200\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Many of the dismissed employees worked within the Federal Student Aid department and assisted with the technical administration of student loans, including handling disputes between borrowers and loan servicers and answering FAFSA questions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12058099\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12058099\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/20250929_UCBERKELEY_GC-1-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/20250929_UCBERKELEY_GC-1-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/20250929_UCBERKELEY_GC-1-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/20250929_UCBERKELEY_GC-1-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Students walk on campus at UC Berkeley in Berkeley on Sept. 29, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The recent government shutdown has only made things worse, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12058230/government-shutdown-affect-student-loans-fafsa-education-department-2025\">furloughing about 87% of the department’s remaining workforce\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The practical impact? Expect longer wait times for processing income-driven repayment applications, employment certification for PSLF and responses to borrower disputes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The good news is you’re not on your own. While the federal government has scaled back support, there are still nonprofit organizations and state resources available to help you navigate your loans.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The National Consumer Law Center offers \u003ca href=\"https://www.nclc.org/issue/student-loans/\">Student Loan Borrower Assistance\u003c/a>, providing free information for people struggling with payments or dealing with default. Protect Borrowers focuses on existing pathways to debt cancellation through the \u003ca href=\"https://www.cancelmystudentdebt.org/\">Cancel My Student Debt campaign\u003c/a>. And California borrowers have access to the state’s dedicated \u003ca href=\"https://dfpi.ca.gov/consumers/student-loans/contact-us/\">Student Loan Ombudsman\u003c/a>, who can help resolve disputes with loan servicers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“These big structural problems, the fact that [borrowers] can’t afford their loan payment or that nobody will return their phone calls, this isn’t because they did something wrong,” Pierce added. “It’s scary for people that are staring down a bill they can’t afford. But this is a function of public policy. It’s not an individual failing.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "More than 350,000 Californians are now behind on their student loan payments. Here's what to know if you're paying off student debt, from changes to income-driven repayment plans to the latest legal proceedings.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>More than 350,000 Californians are now behind on their student loan payments — the highest delinquency rate for any type of debt in over two decades, according to the \u003ca href=\"https://capolicylab.org/news/student-loan-delinquencies-surging-especially-for-older-borrowers/\">California Policy Lab\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s also the highest rate of delinquencies that UC Berkeley California Policy Lab executive director Evan White said he’s seen in the data “for any credit product, including student loans, auto loans, mortgage loans, credit cards” since 2004.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The missed payments are a symptom of a financial safety net that was already frayed before the COVID-19 pandemic greatly disrupted loan repayments. And now, that safety net is unravelling as \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/resource/obbba-increased-costs-fact-sheet/\">borrowers face higher bills\u003c/a>, \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/announcements-events/idr-court-actions\">fewer repayment options\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/10/31/2025-19729/william-d-ford-federal-direct-loan-direct-loan-program\">limited eligibility for loan forgiveness programs\u003c/a> amid a system that even experts call confusing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The federal student loan system is broken,” said Mike Pierce, Executive Director and co-founder of the legal advocacy group \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/\">Protect Borrowers\u003c/a>. “It’s been broken for decades, and lawmakers have failed to deal with that.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Amid this uncertainty, here’s what to know if you’re a borrower in the process of paying off student debt — from the changes to federal loan forgiveness and income-driven repayment plans to the latest legal proceedings and how they might affect you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Jump straight to:\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#Whataremyoptionsforincomedrivenrepayment\">What are my options for income-driven repayment?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#IworkforanonprofitorganizationCanIstillqualifyforPublicServiceLoanForgivenessPSLF\">I work for a nonprofit organization. Can I still qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#ImenrolledintheSAVEplanWhatshouldIbedoing\">I’m enrolled in the SAVE plan. What should I be doing?\u003c/a> \u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#HowwilltheOneBigBeautifulBillimpactmyloans\">How will the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ impact my loans?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>\u003ca href=\"#IthinkmyloanservicermadeamistakeWhatshouldIdo\">I think my loan servicer made a mistake. What should I do?\u003c/a>\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>How did my student loans get so complicated?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2020, \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/20/us/politics/coronavirus-student-loans-education-testing.html\">the federal government paused student loan payments and interest\u003c/a>, giving borrowers an unprecedented break that lasted over three years. Many Californians used that breathing room to pay down credit card debt, build up savings, and even open new lines of credit. Financial wellness metrics improved across the board, according to White and the California Policy Lab.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But as pandemic-era supports ended and loan payments restarted, that relief has now given way to widespread confusion. Borrowers faced mixed messages about repayment deadlines, forgiveness options and which income-driven plans they could actually enroll in. \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/13/business/biden-student-loans.html\">Federal loan forgiveness became a political hot potato during and after the 2020 election\u003c/a>, with \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2022/04/05/business/student-loan-pause-pandemic.html\">repayment deadlines rescheduled under President Donald Trump’s first term … and again\u003c/a> under President Joe Biden. And each delay created more uncertainty about when payments would resume and whether borrowers might qualify for relief, said Mike Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12061284\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1999px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12061284\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/033_KQED_SanFrancisco_SFSU_03112020_6923_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1999\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/033_KQED_SanFrancisco_SFSU_03112020_6923_qed.jpg 1999w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/033_KQED_SanFrancisco_SFSU_03112020_6923_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/10/033_KQED_SanFrancisco_SFSU_03112020_6923_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1999px) 100vw, 1999px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">San Francisco State University on March 11, 2020. \u003ccite>(Beth LaBerge/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Then the legal battles began. The SAVE plan used by millions of student loan borrowers — along with several income-driven repayment options that predated this Biden-era plan — became embroiled in court challenges that have continued to drag on for months.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Now, student loan borrowers have found themselves stuck in limbo for most of 2025: unable to enroll in affordable repayment plans, unsure whether they qualify for loan forgiveness and unclear about the latest and most accurate guidance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The result is a system where even borrowers who \u003cem>want \u003c/em>to pay are struggling to get a handle on their loans, according to Jonathan Glater, a law professor at the University of California, Berkeley, and co-founder of the \u003ca href=\"https://www.slli.org/\">Student Loan Law Initiative\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“One of the criticisms of this whole complicated edifice that we’ve got is that it’s very, very difficult for borrowers to navigate,” said Glater. “It is way too complicated.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Which borrowers are most affected right now?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Lower-income student loan borrowers are “mostly worse off than they were before the pandemic happened,” said the California Policy Lab’s White, who’s also a member of the research team that created and maintains the \u003ca href=\"https://capolicylab.org/california-credit-dashboard/\">California Credit Dashboard\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Older borrowers are the most likely to be impacted in California, White added. According to the California Policy Lab. \u003ca href=\"https://capolicylab.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/Student-Loan-Delinquencies-Surging.pdf\">One possible reason for higher delinquency rates among older borrowers is that they typically owe a larger monthly payment\u003c/a> on their student loans. \u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>The average Boomer with student debt owes $150 per month in student loan payments — 2.4 times that of the average Millennial ($62/month) and 5.8 times that of the average Gen Zer ($26/month). These loans may have been used to pay for their own education, one or more children’s education — or a combination.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The financial burden hitting older borrowers might also be attributed in part to the way the federal loan repayment system works, said White.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Loan repayment plans are designed to limit the amount of payments borrowers make to a fixed period of time. But after a long pandemic pause, borrowers may be resuming their payments with fewer monthly payments remaining — and a balance that hasn’t diminished, or has actually grown from interest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The result: higher monthly payments than what borrowers may have been paying even prior to pandemic assistance.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"Whataremyoptionsforincomedrivenrepayment\">\u003c/a>What are my options for income-driven repayment?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>After a two-month freeze, \u003ca href=\"https://studentloanborrowerassistance.org/idr-application-is-back-up/#2\">the Department of Education is now processing applications for income-driven repayment (IDR) plans again\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>There are currently four IDR plans available to borrowers with federal student loans. (Federal loans generally include “direct” or “federal” in the title, but you can find \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/repayment/plans/income-driven#eligibility\">a complete list of eligible loan types here\u003c/a>, to make sure yours qualifies.)\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047499\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-12047499 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/DepartofEducation.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/DepartofEducation.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/DepartofEducation-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/DepartofEducation-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The U.S. Department of Education is seen before the Safeguard Students, Empower Education Rally & Press Conference on April 29, 2025, in Washington, D.C. \u003ccite>(Pete Kiehart for The Washington Post via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>It’s important to carefully compare plans, as each borrower’s situation is different. You can use this \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/loan-simulator/\">Federal Student Loan Simulator\u003c/a> to calculate and compare your monthly payments under each of the available federal IDR plans.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>All IDR plans base your monthly loan payment on a percentage of your discretionary income, in combination with your family size. The exact percentage of your income and how long you will have to repay varies by plan.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You can find \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/repayment/plans/income-driven#repayment-period\">detailed information about all federal IDR plans here\u003c/a>, but here are the highlights at a glance:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Pay As You Earn (PAYE) Repayment Plan\u003c/strong>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Capped at 10% of discretionary income, repaid over 20 years\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>New Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan\u003c/strong>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>For eligible loans borrowed \u003cem>after \u003c/em>July 1, 2014\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Capped at 10% of discretionary income, repaid over 20 years\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Old Income-Based Repayment (IBR) Plan\u003c/strong>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>For eligible loans borrowed \u003cem>before \u003c/em>July 1, 2014\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Capped at 15% of discretionary income, repaid over 25 years\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong>Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR) Plan\u003c/strong>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Capped at 20% of discretionary income, repaid over 25 years\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/idr/\">Apply for an income-driven plan for the first time, or switch between plans, here\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The benefits of income-driven repayment plans\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>For some people, payments on an IDR plan can be as low as $0 per month. Others may be able to take advantage of another perk — exemption from interest on their loans — if their income-adjusted payments wouldn’t cover the interest accruing on their student loans each month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>IDR plans also operate on a fixed schedule, meaning you’re committed to repaying them over a period of 20 or 25 years — \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/mindshift/65643/how-is-your-student-loan-repayment-affected-by-the-one-big-beautiful-bill\">although the new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) will offer a 30-year repayment period \u003c/a>beginning in 2028. While paying several decades of loan payments may not sound like your idea of a great time, any remaining loan balance could be forgiven outright if your federal student loans aren’t fully repaid by the end of this period.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The drawbacks of income-driven repayment plans\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Before you celebrate loan forgiveness, be sure to read the fine print. Loan balances forgiven at the end of an IDR repayment period are actually subject to income tax — leading savvy borrowers to save for the \u003ca href=\"https://tax.thomsonreuters.com/news/changes-ahead-for-taxpayers-with-discharged-student-loan-debt/\">“tax bomb” that will accompany their emancipation from student debt\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Once you enroll in an IDR plan, you should also set a reminder to update, or “recertify,” your income and family size every year, even if there has been no change.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12049948\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12049948\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/AP25195724697543-scaled-e1764803931499.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Education Secretary Linda McMahon speaks during a Senate Appropriations hearing, Tuesday, June 3, 2025, on Capitol Hill in Washington. \u003ccite>(Julia Demaree Nikhinson/AP Photo)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The consequences for borrowers on IDR plans who don’t recertify their incomes are strict, as you could be removed from your plan and placed on an alternative plan where monthly payments are \u003cem>not \u003c/em>based on income, leading to higher monthly payments and resumed interest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while you can reapply for your preferred IDR plan, recertification issues can cause delays in loan forgiveness, not to mention financial stress. The Department of Education warns that \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/help-center/answers/article/status-of-idr-plan-application\">new applications for IDR plans typically take 30 days to process\u003c/a> – leaving you on the hook for any student loan payments and interest accrued in the meantime.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/idr/\">Apply for an income-driven plan for the first time, or switch between plans, here\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"IworkforanonprofitorganizationCanIstillqualifyforPublicServiceLoanForgivenessPSLF\">\u003c/a>I work for a nonprofit organization. Can I still qualify for Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF)?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you work for a nonprofit or government employer, Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) can be a powerful tool for managing your student debt.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Here’s how it works: make 120 qualifying monthly payments over a 10-year period while working full-time for a qualifying employer, and any remaining federal student loan debt gets forgiven — without that “tax bomb” of income-driven repayment plans.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>PSLF was created by Congress in 2007 specifically to help recruit and retain talented people in public service jobs that often pay less than private sector positions. More than 1 million public servants, from teachers, nurses and social workers to librarians and public defenders, had their loans forgiven through this program under the Biden administration. \u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Now, \u003ca href=\"https://www.nytimes.com/2025/03/07/us/politics/trump-executive-order-student-loan-forgiveness.html\">President Donald Trump’s second administration is seeking to change who qualifies\u003c/a>. An executive order signed by Trump in March and set to take effect July 1, 2026, would allow the education secretary — not the courts or Congress — to deny loan forgiveness to workers whose employers engage in activities deemed to have a “substantial illegal purpose.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The \u003ca href=\"https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/10/31/2025-19729/william-d-ford-federal-direct-loan-direct-loan-program\">examples listed in the rule include\u003c/a> “aiding and abetting violations of Federal immigration laws” and providing certain types of gender-affirming care. San Francisco and several other cities are suing to block this rule.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Protect Borrowers has been involved in filing several of these lawsuits, claiming that restricting public service loan forgiveness is “an attempt to target organizations and jurisdictions whose missions and policies do not align with [the Trump administration’s] political positions on immigration, race, gender, free speech, and public protest.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The Trump administration recognized that there’s real power in the federal government, because it is the creditor for 40 million people,” Pierce said. He is concerned that public service workers could lose access to loan forgiveness simply because their employer resisted federal immigration enforcement or maintained diversity, equity and inclusion programs — even though those local policies may be perfectly legal.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>So amid this legal action, what should you do if you’re working toward PSLF forgiveness?\u003c/p>\n\u003col>\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong> Don’t wait\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>Submit your employment certification forms now to get credit for the payments you’ve already made.\u003c/p>\n\u003col start=\"2\">\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong> Keep meticulous records \u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>Your employment, every loan payment you’ve made — collect screenshots, confirmation emails, everything.\u003c/p>\n\u003col start=\"3\">\n\u003cli>\u003cstrong> Work extra-fast if you’re close to hitting that 120-payment mark\u003c/strong>\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ol>\n\u003cp>Prioritize reaching that threshold before the July 2026 deadline when this rule takes effect.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re currently enrolled in SAVE, consider switching to another income-driven repayment plan to resume qualifying PSLF payments.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You should also pay attention to how this lawsuit unfolds, said Pierce. \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/litigation/pslf-lawsuit/\">The plaintiffs argue the Education Department is overstepping its authority and rewriting what Congress clearly defined as “public service” — any government job or 501(c)(3) nonprofit\u003c/a>. The courts will ultimately decide whether the secretary has the power to add political litmus tests to a program Congress designed to support all public service workers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the meantime, protect yourself by documenting everything and staying informed about your rights.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"ImenrolledintheSAVEplanWhatshouldIbedoing\">\u003c/a>I’m enrolled in the SAVE plan. Should I switch to another income-driven repayment option?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The SAVE plan was designed to be a lifeline — the most affordable income-driven repayment option the federal government had offered to date.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Promising shorter repayment periods, more generous income calculations that would lower monthly payments and a faster path to loan forgiveness for low-income borrowers, \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/new-court-filing-reveals-backlog-of-2-million-borrower-payment-plan-applications/#:~:text=Background,district%20court%20for%20further%20proceedings.\">the SAVE plan had eight million enrollees\u003c/a> as of May 2025.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11955722\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-11955722\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED.jpg\" alt='People hold signs reading \"Cancel Student Debt Now!\" in front of the columned facade of the supreme court.' width=\"2000\" height=\"1302\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-800x521.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-1020x664.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-160x104.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-1536x1000.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KD-KQED-1920x1250.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Student debt relief activists participate in a rally at the U.S. Supreme Court on June 30, 2023, in Washington, D.C. \u003ccite>(Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But Missouri and several other Republican-led states filed lawsuits challenging the SAVE repayment plan and arguing that the Biden administration had overstepped its authority beginning in spring 2024 — and \u003ca href=\"https://studentloanborrowerassistance.org/part-2-the-current-impact-on-borrowers-of-lawsuits-challenging-the-save-plan-and-the-removal-of-idr-applications/\">SAVE has been frozen in legal limbo ever since\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re enrolled in SAVE, here’s what’s happening with your loans right now: You haven’t been required to make payments since last summer while the case winds through the courts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You’re in what’s known as “forbearance,” and while those months do count toward eventual income-driven repayment forgiveness (typically after 20 to 25 years), they don’t count as qualifying payments toward Public Service Loan Forgiveness.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And as of August, interest has resumed accruing — which means your balance will continue to grow each month, unless you make payments to offset the interest.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For borrowers working toward PSLF who are close to the 120-payment finish line, staying in SAVE means you’re losing time: those paused months won’t count, and \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/manage-loans/forgiveness-cancellation/public-service/public-service-loan-forgiveness-buyback\">you may need to use a “buy back” option later to pay for these months retroactively\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The good news? You have options. Applications for other income-driven repayment plans — Income-Based Repayment, Pay as You Earn, and Income-Contingent Repayment — are now open again after a months-long delay. If you’re pursuing Public Service Loan Forgiveness, switching to one of these plans means your payments will start counting toward that 120-payment requirement again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you’re simply trying to stop your balance from ballooning, moving to an active repayment plan gives you more control. The application process may take a few weeks, but for many borrowers — especially those close to PSLF eligibility or watching their interest pile up — making the switch may be worth it to get back on track.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"HowwilltheOneBigBeautifulBillimpactmyloans\">\u003c/a>How will the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill’ impact my loans?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>If you’re a federal student loan borrower, the \u003ca href=\"https://www.congress.gov/bill/119th-congress/house-bill/1/text\">H.R.1 budget, known as the One Big Beautiful Bill Act\u003c/a>, that passed in July, included changes to the federal loan system that could impact you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The SAVE plan is being shut down by July 1, 2028 — but so are two other income-driven repayment plans: Pay as You Earn (PAYE) and Income-Contingent Repayment (ICR). If you’re currently enrolled in either of these plans, you’ll need to switch before that deadline.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12047827\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1800px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12047827\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/npr.brightspotcdn-copy-7.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1800\" height=\"1200\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/npr.brightspotcdn-copy-7.jpg 1800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/npr.brightspotcdn-copy-7-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/07/npr.brightspotcdn-copy-7-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1800px) 100vw, 1800px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">President Trump bangs a gavel after signing the One Big Beautiful Bill Act at the White House on July 4. \u003ccite>(Brendan Smialowski/Pool/AFP via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The Income-Based Repayment (IBR) plan, a Reagan-era program that was implemented by Congress, will remain available for current borrowers. Pierce said it’s worth considering now, especially since it offers loan forgiveness after 20 or 25 years instead of the 30 years required under the Trump administration’s proposed replacement plan.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That new Repayment Assistance Plan (RAP) won’t be ready until next year, and key details haven’t been revealed yet — leaving borrowers with limited information to plan ahead.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The spending bill includes provisions that also affect future students: new borrowers taking out loans after July 1, 2026, will not have access to traditional income-driven repayment plans at all. They’ll be limited to the new RAP or a standard fixed-payment plan, both with far less flexibility than previous options. \u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>The law also introduces borrowing caps for graduate and professional degree students ($20,500 annually, $100,000 lifetime) and parents taking out loans to assist with a child’s education ($20,000 per year, $65,000 per child).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Student loan experts worry these caps will push more borrowers toward private lenders, which charge higher interest rates, offer less favorable terms and don’t qualify for any income-driven repayment or forgiveness programs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You’re pushing people into the private student loan market and away from safe federal student loans with good consumer protections,” said Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to Jonathan Glater, H.R.1 does nothing to address why student debt became a crisis in the first place: skyrocketing college tuition costs. By capping federal borrowing without tackling affordability, the law may simply shift the burden from federal loans to private debt, he warned — or price students out of higher education entirely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My fear is that what we are seeing is a lifting of the ladder of higher ed opportunity higher, so it’ll be out of reach for more people,” said Glater.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’re planning for graduate school or helping a child pay for college, factor these new limits into your timeline and consider whether starting \u003cem>before \u003c/em>July 2026 would give you access to more generous borrowing options.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And document everything — experts caution that, considering the sheer volume of changes, and the Education Department operating with reduced staff, keeping detailed records of your loans, payments, and applications is more important than ever.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca id=\"IthinkmyloanservicermadeamistakeWhatshouldIdo\">\u003c/a>I think my loan servicer made a mistake. What should I do?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Your federal student loans might be owned by the government, but they’re managed by private loan servicing companies.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It is a black mark on the student loan system that people need to know what a student loan servicer is,” Pierce said. These are companies contracted to administer and collect your loans, handle your payments, process paperwork for income-driven repayment plans and answer your questions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11955727\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11955727 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED.jpg\" alt='A person with long hair and a black t-shirt holds up a bright yellow sign reading \"Cancel Student Debt\" amidst others doing similar.' width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-800x533.jpg 800w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-1020x680.jpg 1020w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/07/230714-SUPREME-COURT-STUDENT-DEBT-Getty-KN-KQED-1920x1280.jpg 1920w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A demonstrator holds a “Cancel Student Debt” sign outside of the Supreme Court of the United States after the nation’s high court stuck down President Biden’s student debt relief program in Washington, D.C. on June 30, 2023. \u003ccite>(Kent Nishimura/Los Angeles Times via Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The problem? In their role as the middleman between you and the Department of Education, several \u003ca href=\"https://www.consumerfinance.gov/about-us/newsroom/cfpb-bans-navient-from-federal-student-loan-servicing-and-orders-the-company-to-pay-120-million-for-wide-ranging-student-lending-failures/\">loan servicers have made serious administrative errors\u003c/a> and \u003ca href=\"https://www.aft.org/sites/default/files/media/documents/2024/AFT%20v.%20MOHELA_Complaint%2007.22.2024.pdf\">have been targets of class action lawsuits for mishandling borrower accounts\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“We hear the worst stories about lost paperwork, changing balances, the rules being rewritten for people right in the middle of paying their loans back when those loan companies change,” said Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you’ve been repaying loans for a while, you’ve probably experienced at least one transfer of your debt from one servicer to another. According to Pierce, each transfer creates an opportunity for information to get lost, payment counts to be recorded incorrectly or for the servicer to lose contact with you entirely.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you think your loan servicer made a mistake — whether it’s incorrect payment counts, wrong balance information, or problems with your repayment plan — don’t just accept it, urged Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Protect Borrowers has detailed resources on their website explaining what steps to take when your servicer gets it wrong, which include:\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Start by documenting everything\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Take screenshots of your account, save emails and letters, and keep records of every phone call, said Pierce — including the date, time, and name of the representative.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>File a formal complaint with your servicer first\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>…but be ready to escalate to the \u003ca href=\"https://studentaid.gov/feedback-ombudsman\">Federal Student Aid Ombudsman\u003c/a> if the issue isn’t resolved.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>California borrowers have an additional resource: the state’s dedicated \u003ca href=\"https://dfpi.ca.gov/consumers/student-loans/contact-us/\">Student Loan Ombudsman\u003c/a>, who can help navigate disputes and advocate on your behalf.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Be proactive and persistent\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Loan servicers handle millions of accounts, and mistakes happen — but those mistakes can cost you thousands of dollars or years of progress toward forgiveness if they’re not caught and corrected, said Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003cstrong>Don’t assume your servicer has correct information for you\u003c/strong>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>…especially after a transfer. Regularly check your account, verify your payment counts match your records, and if something looks off, speak up immediately. The more documentation you have, the easier it will be to prove an error and get it fixed, said Pierce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>His advice for borrowers “that are just stuck” is to go to your lawmaker and \u003ca href=\"https://protectborrowers.org/resource/protect-borrowers-congressional-casework-tool/\">open up a case with your local member of Congress or your state senator\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“There’s only so much you can do with the current law, but for people that are stuck waiting on hold … or feel like they’ve been lied to by a student loan company, often going to your member of congress and opening up a case with them is the best way forward here,” he said, adding that Congressional casework can cut through red tape when the Education Department is overwhelmed or unresponsive.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>I need help navigating my student loans, but I’m not hearing back. Why?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12031831/i-have-student-loans-what-should-i-do-during-these-department-of-education-cuts\">The Department of Education has been hit hard by cuts under the Trump administration;\u003c/a> its workforce was slashed in half earlier this year, \u003ca href=\"https://www.ed.gov/about/news/press-release/us-department-of-education-initiates-reduction-force\">dropping from about 4,100 employees to roughly 2,200\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Many of the dismissed employees worked within the Federal Student Aid department and assisted with the technical administration of student loans, including handling disputes between borrowers and loan servicers and answering FAFSA questions.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12058099\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12058099\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/20250929_UCBERKELEY_GC-1-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/20250929_UCBERKELEY_GC-1-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/20250929_UCBERKELEY_GC-1-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/09/20250929_UCBERKELEY_GC-1-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Students walk on campus at UC Berkeley in Berkeley on Sept. 29, 2025. \u003ccite>(Gina Castro/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The recent government shutdown has only made things worse, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12058230/government-shutdown-affect-student-loans-fafsa-education-department-2025\">furloughing about 87% of the department’s remaining workforce\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The practical impact? Expect longer wait times for processing income-driven repayment applications, employment certification for PSLF and responses to borrower disputes.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The good news is you’re not on your own. While the federal government has scaled back support, there are still nonprofit organizations and state resources available to help you navigate your loans.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The National Consumer Law Center offers \u003ca href=\"https://www.nclc.org/issue/student-loans/\">Student Loan Borrower Assistance\u003c/a>, providing free information for people struggling with payments or dealing with default. Protect Borrowers focuses on existing pathways to debt cancellation through the \u003ca href=\"https://www.cancelmystudentdebt.org/\">Cancel My Student Debt campaign\u003c/a>. And California borrowers have access to the state’s dedicated \u003ca href=\"https://dfpi.ca.gov/consumers/student-loans/contact-us/\">Student Loan Ombudsman\u003c/a>, who can help resolve disputes with loan servicers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“These big structural problems, the fact that [borrowers] can’t afford their loan payment or that nobody will return their phone calls, this isn’t because they did something wrong,” Pierce added. “It’s scary for people that are staring down a bill they can’t afford. But this is a function of public policy. It’s not an individual failing.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "calfresh-snap-benefits-free-food-stamps-fruit-vegetables-ebt-program",
"title": "On CalFresh? How to Get $60 of Free Fruits and Vegetables Each Month",
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"headTitle": "On CalFresh? How to Get $60 of Free Fruits and Vegetables Each Month | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>It’s only been a month since\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12060770/snap-calfresh-food-stamps-government-shutdown-november-payments-ebt\"> the federal government shutdown\u003c/a> caused the 5.5 million Californians who use CalFresh — the state’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — to see their payments delayed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And although payments of SNAP (formerly referred to as food stamps) have restarted, another holiday season is around the corner, putting extra strain on folks who are food insecure in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One positive development: the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program — a state program offering SNAP recipients up to $60 of free produce each month — has restarted as of November.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://a24.asmdc.org/press-releases/20251120-calfresh-program-relaunches-make-healthy-food-more-affordable\">The program, which first launched in 2023\u003c/a>, is dependent on state-allocated annual funds that are spent until they’re used up, and the 2024 cycle ran out for CalFresh users back in January of this year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But this year, the program has received an injection of $36 million, which is projected to last until summer 2026.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In previous years, the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program has made “a real, real difference to so many families,” before its funds were used up, said Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San José), who chairs the state Legislature’s Human Services Committee with oversight of CalFresh policy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11792620\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11792620 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2019/12/ap_17271692702067-ea1b97e98e157d598fa245d9c752f917e6c25c57-e1576950264238.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1440\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT program has officially restarted, offering SNAP recipients up to $60 in free monthly produce. \u003ccite>(Danny Moloshok/AP Photo)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But despite that, he said, “still only a small percentage of all CalFresh-eligible families are using it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While only six stores in the Bay Area are participating in the program right now — almost all of them in the South Bay — anyone receiving CalFresh benefits can automatically receive $60 worth of fresh produce each month if they’re able to reach one of these locations.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for how the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program works, where it’s available and how to redeem your money in-store.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you don’t need this information yourself right now, consider sharing it with someone else who might: “One in five Californians suffer from food insecurity,” Lee said. “So statistically speaking, you are, or you know someone who is struggling with food.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Can anyone on CalFresh use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes: If you receive any CalFresh (SNAP) benefits, you have automatic access to the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program at participating stores (see below).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You don’t need to apply for anything, as your EBT card itself is your proof of eligibility.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Can I use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program in any store that accepts EBT?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>No: You’ll need to visit one of the specific stores participating in the program.[aside postID=news_11974262 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/GettyImages-1322106041-1536x1024-1-1020x680.jpg']In the Bay Area, almost all of these stores are in Santa Clara County:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Santa Fe Foods, 860 White Road, San José\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Arteaga’s Food Center, 204 Willow St., San José\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Arteaga’s Food Center, 1003 Lincoln Ave., San José\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Arteaga’s Food Center, 2620 Alum Rock Ave., San José\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Arteaga’s Food Center, 6906 Automall Pkwy., Gilroy\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>In Alameda County, you can use the program at:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Santa Fe Foods, 7356 Thornton Ave., Newark\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>There are also participating stores in Monterey and Salinas counties, and several in the Los Angeles area. See a full list of grocery stores participating in \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/ebt/california-fruit-vegetable-ebt-pilot-project\">the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How do I use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program in the store?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>First, make sure you’re in one of \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/ebt/california-fruit-vegetable-ebt-pilot-project\">the stores participating in the program\u003c/a> — mistakes can happen — and that you’ve brought your EBT card with you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Next, do your shopping as normal, and pick up fresh fruits and vegetables as part of your trip. You don’t have to separate the produce or pay for it in a different transaction.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At the register, tell the cashier you’d like to use your EBT card to pay for your shopping, like you usually would. When it comes to the fresh fruits and vegetables in your cart, you’ll initially see the costs of those particular items come off your EBT funds — but then those funds will be immediately returned, making that produce effectively free at the register.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11943822\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11943822 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/03/GettyImages-1144627849-scaled-e1764880413771.jpg\" alt=\"A young Asian man with short dark hair and round glasses carries a 1-year-old girl, with tiny black pigtails, in a harness on his chest, with the girl facing out. They stand in the light of a vegetable display in a supermarket. The man holds a plastic container full of green vegetables, maybe cucumbers, smiling as his daughter reaches out to touch the box.\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">If you receive any CalFresh (SNAP) benefits, you have automatic access to the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program at participating stores. \u003ccite>(d3sign/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Another way of seeing it: If your cart amounts to $15 of EBT-eligible food, including $5 of produce, you’ll initially see $15 debited from your card on the screen — but then you’ll see the instant rebate of $5 for your produce, meaning your final receipt will only be $10.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People don’t have to enroll and do anything different; they don’t have to keep track of some paper coupon or some other card,” said Eli Zigas, executive director of Fullwell: the Bay Area nonprofit advocacy organization partnering with the state to administer the program this year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s all built into the EBT card at the participating locations,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while you can get these instant rebates for up to $60 worth of produce each month, remember: You don’t have to “spend” that $60 up in one transaction. Your EBT will automatically keep track of your produce purchases and just stop issuing the instant rebates once you’ve hit that $60 cap for the month.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Does the amount of produce I can buy using the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program depend on how much I’m receiving in CalFresh benefits?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>No: Every CalFresh household can get up to $60 of free fresh fruits and vegetables with their EBT card, regardless of the amount of benefits they receive. It’s a flat amount for all SNAP users in the state.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>My EBT balance is at $0 right now. Can I still use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>No: To get the instant rebate on money spent on fresh fruit and vegetables, you’ll first need to actually spend those funds using your EBT card — even though you’ll immediately get the money back onto that card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t have any money on your EBT card available, you’ll have to wait until your CalFresh funds are reloaded next month to be able to use the program again. But remember that if your EBT funds are running low, you can still spend a smaller amount — or whatever’s available on your card — on fresh fruit and vegetables and receive the money back instantly, until you’ve maxed out that $60-per-month cap.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Is there a deadline to use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The $36 million approved in the most recent state budget by the California legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom for the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program “is three and a half times more money than this program has ever had previously for an annual cycle,” Zigas said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In previous years, Lee said, the funding would last for different periods “because the program was so wildly successful and oversubscribed that it would run out for a while.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11104718\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11104718 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2016/09/11104717-thumb-e1764880797557.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1350\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">CalFresh (SNAP) recipients have automatic access to the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program at participating stores. \u003ccite>(Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>So what about 2026? “We estimate, based on previous usage, that the program will have funds to run through the summer,” Zigas said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But after summer arrives, Zigas said, “it’s all going to depend on what the usage is, and whether there’s renewed funding.” So while you still have many months to try the program, you shouldn’t wait too long — not least because each month that passes will bring another $60 for you to spend on produce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the wake of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062685/eating-for-survival-with-november-snap-delays-how-will-bay-area-families-cope\">the SNAP delays caused by the government shutdown\u003c/a>, “I think people have seen recently more than ever before how important CalFresh is and how much people are struggling to put food on the table,” Zigas said. “We would love to see this program not only operate continuously all year long without interruption, but also expand — because it’s a limited number of grocery stores right now offering this program, and it could be so much bigger.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Is the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program the same as Market Match, and can I use both?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://marketmatch.org/\">Market Match\u003c/a> is a statewide program that distributes funds to farmers’ markets across California, allowing people using CalFresh to “match” an amount of their choosing from their EBT card at the market with tokens to spend at that location — essentially doubling their funds.\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote class=\"tiktok-embed\" style=\"max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;\" cite=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@kqedofficial/video/7244672340460637482\" data-video-id=\"7244672340460637482\">\n\u003csection>\u003ca title=\"@kqedofficial\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@kqedofficial?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@kqedofficial\u003c/a> If you use CalFresh, otherwise known as food stamps, you could be getting extra money to spend at your local farmer’s market. It’s called Market Match, and here’s a step-by-step guide for when you use your EBT card there. \u003ca title=\"calfresh\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/calfresh?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#CalFresh\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"foodstamps\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foodstamps?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#FoodStamps\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"ebt\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/ebt?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#EBT\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"farmersmarket\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/farmersmarket?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#FarmersMarket\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"♬ original sound - kqed\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7244672377030757162?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">♬ original sound – kqed\u003c/a>\u003c/section>\n\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>[tiktok]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Market Match is a separate state program from the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program, but people on CalFresh can use both programs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://marketmatch.org/\">Learn more about the Market Match program\u003c/a>, and watch KQED’s video on how to use your EBT card at your local market.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Why does the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program focus on fresh produce specifically?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The program’s focus on fresh fruit and vegetables “is recognizing that CalFresh benefits, as good as they are, are often insufficient for people to afford the food that they want for their families,” Zigas said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This is especially true of fresh fruits and vegetables, he said, “which are harder to justify buying when you have less income because they’re not shelf stable, and you don’t know if your kids are necessarily going to like them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People would like to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, and often just don’t feel like they can make that choice — or afford it,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "The CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program has restarted, offering SNAP users in the state instant rebates on up to $60 of produce. Here’s where to use it.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>It’s only been a month since\u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12060770/snap-calfresh-food-stamps-government-shutdown-november-payments-ebt\"> the federal government shutdown\u003c/a> caused the 5.5 million Californians who use CalFresh — the state’s version of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program — to see their payments delayed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And although payments of SNAP (formerly referred to as food stamps) have restarted, another holiday season is around the corner, putting extra strain on folks who are food insecure in the Bay Area.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>One positive development: the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program — a state program offering SNAP recipients up to $60 of free produce each month — has restarted as of November.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://a24.asmdc.org/press-releases/20251120-calfresh-program-relaunches-make-healthy-food-more-affordable\">The program, which first launched in 2023\u003c/a>, is dependent on state-allocated annual funds that are spent until they’re used up, and the 2024 cycle ran out for CalFresh users back in January of this year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But this year, the program has received an injection of $36 million, which is projected to last until summer 2026.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In previous years, the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program has made “a real, real difference to so many families,” before its funds were used up, said Assemblymember Alex Lee (D-San José), who chairs the state Legislature’s Human Services Committee with oversight of CalFresh policy.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11792620\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 1920px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11792620 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2019/12/ap_17271692702067-ea1b97e98e157d598fa245d9c752f917e6c25c57-e1576950264238.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"1920\" height=\"1440\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">The CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT program has officially restarted, offering SNAP recipients up to $60 in free monthly produce. \u003ccite>(Danny Moloshok/AP Photo)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>But despite that, he said, “still only a small percentage of all CalFresh-eligible families are using it.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While only six stores in the Bay Area are participating in the program right now — almost all of them in the South Bay — anyone receiving CalFresh benefits can automatically receive $60 worth of fresh produce each month if they’re able to reach one of these locations.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Keep reading for how the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program works, where it’s available and how to redeem your money in-store.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And if you don’t need this information yourself right now, consider sharing it with someone else who might: “One in five Californians suffer from food insecurity,” Lee said. “So statistically speaking, you are, or you know someone who is struggling with food.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Can anyone on CalFresh use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Yes: If you receive any CalFresh (SNAP) benefits, you have automatic access to the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program at participating stores (see below).\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>You don’t need to apply for anything, as your EBT card itself is your proof of eligibility.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Can I use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program in any store that accepts EBT?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>No: You’ll need to visit one of the specific stores participating in the program.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>In the Bay Area, almost all of these stores are in Santa Clara County:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Santa Fe Foods, 860 White Road, San José\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Arteaga’s Food Center, 204 Willow St., San José\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Arteaga’s Food Center, 1003 Lincoln Ave., San José\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Arteaga’s Food Center, 2620 Alum Rock Ave., San José\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Arteaga’s Food Center, 6906 Automall Pkwy., Gilroy\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>In Alameda County, you can use the program at:\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli>Santa Fe Foods, 7356 Thornton Ave., Newark\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003cp>There are also participating stores in Monterey and Salinas counties, and several in the Los Angeles area. See a full list of grocery stores participating in \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/ebt/california-fruit-vegetable-ebt-pilot-project\">the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>How do I use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program in the store?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>First, make sure you’re in one of \u003ca href=\"https://www.cdss.ca.gov/inforesources/ebt/california-fruit-vegetable-ebt-pilot-project\">the stores participating in the program\u003c/a> — mistakes can happen — and that you’ve brought your EBT card with you.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Next, do your shopping as normal, and pick up fresh fruits and vegetables as part of your trip. You don’t have to separate the produce or pay for it in a different transaction.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>At the register, tell the cashier you’d like to use your EBT card to pay for your shopping, like you usually would. When it comes to the fresh fruits and vegetables in your cart, you’ll initially see the costs of those particular items come off your EBT funds — but then those funds will be immediately returned, making that produce effectively free at the register.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11943822\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11943822 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/03/GettyImages-1144627849-scaled-e1764880413771.jpg\" alt=\"A young Asian man with short dark hair and round glasses carries a 1-year-old girl, with tiny black pigtails, in a harness on his chest, with the girl facing out. They stand in the light of a vegetable display in a supermarket. The man holds a plastic container full of green vegetables, maybe cucumbers, smiling as his daughter reaches out to touch the box.\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1334\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">If you receive any CalFresh (SNAP) benefits, you have automatic access to the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program at participating stores. \u003ccite>(d3sign/Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Another way of seeing it: If your cart amounts to $15 of EBT-eligible food, including $5 of produce, you’ll initially see $15 debited from your card on the screen — but then you’ll see the instant rebate of $5 for your produce, meaning your final receipt will only be $10.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People don’t have to enroll and do anything different; they don’t have to keep track of some paper coupon or some other card,” said Eli Zigas, executive director of Fullwell: the Bay Area nonprofit advocacy organization partnering with the state to administer the program this year.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s all built into the EBT card at the participating locations,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And while you can get these instant rebates for up to $60 worth of produce each month, remember: You don’t have to “spend” that $60 up in one transaction. Your EBT will automatically keep track of your produce purchases and just stop issuing the instant rebates once you’ve hit that $60 cap for the month.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Does the amount of produce I can buy using the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program depend on how much I’m receiving in CalFresh benefits?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>No: Every CalFresh household can get up to $60 of free fresh fruits and vegetables with their EBT card, regardless of the amount of benefits they receive. It’s a flat amount for all SNAP users in the state.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>My EBT balance is at $0 right now. Can I still use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>No: To get the instant rebate on money spent on fresh fruit and vegetables, you’ll first need to actually spend those funds using your EBT card — even though you’ll immediately get the money back onto that card.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>If you don’t have any money on your EBT card available, you’ll have to wait until your CalFresh funds are reloaded next month to be able to use the program again. But remember that if your EBT funds are running low, you can still spend a smaller amount — or whatever’s available on your card — on fresh fruit and vegetables and receive the money back instantly, until you’ve maxed out that $60-per-month cap.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Is there a deadline to use the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The $36 million approved in the most recent state budget by the California legislature and Gov. Gavin Newsom for the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program “is three and a half times more money than this program has ever had previously for an annual cycle,” Zigas said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In previous years, Lee said, the funding would last for different periods “because the program was so wildly successful and oversubscribed that it would run out for a while.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_11104718\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"wp-image-11104718 size-full\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2016/09/11104717-thumb-e1764880797557.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1350\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">CalFresh (SNAP) recipients have automatic access to the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program at participating stores. \u003ccite>(Getty Images)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>So what about 2026? “We estimate, based on previous usage, that the program will have funds to run through the summer,” Zigas said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But after summer arrives, Zigas said, “it’s all going to depend on what the usage is, and whether there’s renewed funding.” So while you still have many months to try the program, you shouldn’t wait too long — not least because each month that passes will bring another $60 for you to spend on produce.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the wake of \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12062685/eating-for-survival-with-november-snap-delays-how-will-bay-area-families-cope\">the SNAP delays caused by the government shutdown\u003c/a>, “I think people have seen recently more than ever before how important CalFresh is and how much people are struggling to put food on the table,” Zigas said. “We would love to see this program not only operate continuously all year long without interruption, but also expand — because it’s a limited number of grocery stores right now offering this program, and it could be so much bigger.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Is the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program the same as Market Match, and can I use both?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://marketmatch.org/\">Market Match\u003c/a> is a statewide program that distributes funds to farmers’ markets across California, allowing people using CalFresh to “match” an amount of their choosing from their EBT card at the market with tokens to spend at that location — essentially doubling their funds.\u003c/p>\n\u003cblockquote class=\"tiktok-embed\" style=\"max-width: 605px; min-width: 325px;\" cite=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@kqedofficial/video/7244672340460637482\" data-video-id=\"7244672340460637482\">\n\u003csection>\u003ca title=\"@kqedofficial\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/@kqedofficial?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@kqedofficial\u003c/a> If you use CalFresh, otherwise known as food stamps, you could be getting extra money to spend at your local farmer’s market. It’s called Market Match, and here’s a step-by-step guide for when you use your EBT card there. \u003ca title=\"calfresh\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/calfresh?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#CalFresh\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"foodstamps\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/foodstamps?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#FoodStamps\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"ebt\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/ebt?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#EBT\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"farmersmarket\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/tag/farmersmarket?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">#FarmersMarket\u003c/a> \u003ca title=\"♬ original sound - kqed\" href=\"https://www.tiktok.com/music/original-sound-7244672377030757162?refer=embed\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">♬ original sound – kqed\u003c/a>\u003c/section>\n\u003c/blockquote>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Market Match is a separate state program from the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program, but people on CalFresh can use both programs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003ca href=\"https://marketmatch.org/\">Learn more about the Market Match program\u003c/a>, and watch KQED’s video on how to use your EBT card at your local market.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Why does the CalFresh Fruit and Vegetable EBT Program focus on fresh produce specifically?\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The program’s focus on fresh fruit and vegetables “is recognizing that CalFresh benefits, as good as they are, are often insufficient for people to afford the food that they want for their families,” Zigas said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>This is especially true of fresh fruits and vegetables, he said, “which are harder to justify buying when you have less income because they’re not shelf stable, and you don’t know if your kids are necessarily going to like them.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“People would like to buy fresh fruits and vegetables, and often just don’t feel like they can make that choice — or afford it,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "for-surfers-santa-cruz-waves-are-priceless",
"title": "For Surfers, Santa Cruz Waves Are Priceless",
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"headTitle": "For Surfers, Santa Cruz Waves Are Priceless | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>\u003cb>Here are the morning’s top stories on Wednesday, November 26, 2025…\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Santa Cruz County’s surf breaks are free to enjoy, but worth millions. That’s \u003c/span>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kazu.org/2025-10-03/for-surfers-santa-cruz-waves-are-priceless-a-new-report-gives-them-a-dollar-value\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">one of the findings\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in the first report to put a price on the world-renowned surf playground. \u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Humboldt County recently approved \u003ca href=\"https://www.ijpr.org/environment-energy-and-transportation/2025-11-10/one-of-the-most-intriguing-topics-new-green-cemetery-coming-to-humboldt-county\">its first green cemetery.\u003c/a> The model allows bodies to decompose in a more environmentally friendly way.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kazu.org/2025-10-03/for-surfers-santa-cruz-waves-are-priceless-a-new-report-gives-them-a-dollar-value\">\u003cstrong>Report Looks At Surf Industry’s Economic Impact\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Santa Cruz surf breaks are free to enjoy but worth millions. That’s one of the key findings in the \u003ca class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.savethewaves.org/surfonomics-and-climate-vulnerability-in-santa-cruz-ca/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u003cu>first report\u003c/u>\u003c/a> to put a dollar value on this world-renowned surf playground. The report identified 30-odd surf spots dotted across Santa Cruz County’s 7-mile stretch of pumping waves. One of them, Cowell’s Beach, is among the busiest, partly because it’s a good place to learn.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The faint sweetness of blueberry surf wax drifts through the brisk morning air as Thomas Mendoza preps his shortboard in the parking lot of Cowell’s. Mendoza has surfed all over the world but caught his first wave here. He remembers the feeling from the front of his dad’s longboard when he was about 5 or 6 years old. “When you get your first wave and you stand up on it and you’re riding it in, the feeling is electric,” he said, “and I knew right away I was hooked and I was gonna be hooked for the rest of my life.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Santa Cruz attracts surfers of all levels, but also brings in spectators. In its new report, \u003ca class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.savethewaves.org/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u003cu>Save the Waves\u003c/u>\u003c/a>, a national surf-advocacy nonprofit based in Santa Cruz, found surfing draws in 800,000 people and $200 million to the area each year. “A lot of people say surfing’s priceless,” said Shaun Burns, a pro surfer who also works at Save the Waves. “Putting a number to it is pretty awesome and pretty groundbreaking.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That’s the positive. But there are also concerns: the quality and duration of surfable waves is changing with the climate. The 2-year study—dubbed “surfonomics”—found that as sea level rises, sandy beaches will disappear. As a Santa Cruz native, Burns has seen this happen in his lifetime. “Even in the 33 years that I’ve been around, there’s been a wave that has gone extinct,” said Burns. “I grew up boogie boarding a place that no longer breaks just because there’s not enough sand there for the wave to break far enough out to create a rideable wave.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2 class=\"ArtP-headline\">\u003ca href=\"https://www.ijpr.org/environment-energy-and-transportation/2025-11-10/one-of-the-most-intriguing-topics-new-green-cemetery-coming-to-humboldt-county\">\u003cstrong>New Green Cemetery Coming To Humboldt County\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Residents of far Northern California will soon have a new option for their final resting place: Humboldt County’s first green cemetery. The Planning Commission unanimously approved the project recently.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The nonprofit \u003ca class=\"Link\" href=\"https://sacredfamilygroves.org/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sacred Groves\u003c/a> will create an approximately 44-acre cemetery about a 30-minute drive from Eureka.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Green burial means interring an unembalmed body in a biodegradable shroud or casket, without a concrete vault or plastic liner, to promote natural decomposition. Michael Furniss, project applicant and executive director of Sacred Groves, said the soil at the site is perfect. “Good organic matter, good percolation characteristics and infiltration, good aggregate stability, rich biota and is highly fertile,” he said. “It’s really an ideal soil, and that really turns me on.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to \u003ca class=\"Link\" href=\"https://humboldt.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&ID=14898793&GUID=BE1239E3-E152-404B-9659-995D4FE5BDE3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">a staff report\u003c/a>, the carbon footprint for a green burial is one-fifteenth that of a traditional burial and one-tenth that of cremation.\u003c/p>\n\n",
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"excerpt": "A new report found surfing draws in 800,000 people and $200 million to the area each year.",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>\u003cb>Here are the morning’s top stories on Wednesday, November 26, 2025…\u003c/b>\u003c/p>\n\u003cul>\n\u003cli style=\"font-weight: 400\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">Santa Cruz County’s surf breaks are free to enjoy, but worth millions. That’s \u003c/span>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kazu.org/2025-10-03/for-surfers-santa-cruz-waves-are-priceless-a-new-report-gives-them-a-dollar-value\">\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\">one of the findings\u003c/span>\u003c/a>\u003cspan style=\"font-weight: 400\"> in the first report to put a price on the world-renowned surf playground. \u003c/span>\u003c/li>\n\u003cli>Humboldt County recently approved \u003ca href=\"https://www.ijpr.org/environment-energy-and-transportation/2025-11-10/one-of-the-most-intriguing-topics-new-green-cemetery-coming-to-humboldt-county\">its first green cemetery.\u003c/a> The model allows bodies to decompose in a more environmentally friendly way.\u003c/li>\n\u003c/ul>\n\u003ch2>\u003ca href=\"https://www.kazu.org/2025-10-03/for-surfers-santa-cruz-waves-are-priceless-a-new-report-gives-them-a-dollar-value\">\u003cstrong>Report Looks At Surf Industry’s Economic Impact\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Santa Cruz surf breaks are free to enjoy but worth millions. That’s one of the key findings in the \u003ca class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.savethewaves.org/surfonomics-and-climate-vulnerability-in-santa-cruz-ca/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u003cu>first report\u003c/u>\u003c/a> to put a dollar value on this world-renowned surf playground. The report identified 30-odd surf spots dotted across Santa Cruz County’s 7-mile stretch of pumping waves. One of them, Cowell’s Beach, is among the busiest, partly because it’s a good place to learn.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The faint sweetness of blueberry surf wax drifts through the brisk morning air as Thomas Mendoza preps his shortboard in the parking lot of Cowell’s. Mendoza has surfed all over the world but caught his first wave here. He remembers the feeling from the front of his dad’s longboard when he was about 5 or 6 years old. “When you get your first wave and you stand up on it and you’re riding it in, the feeling is electric,” he said, “and I knew right away I was hooked and I was gonna be hooked for the rest of my life.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Santa Cruz attracts surfers of all levels, but also brings in spectators. In its new report, \u003ca class=\"Link\" href=\"https://www.savethewaves.org/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u003cu>Save the Waves\u003c/u>\u003c/a>, a national surf-advocacy nonprofit based in Santa Cruz, found surfing draws in 800,000 people and $200 million to the area each year. “A lot of people say surfing’s priceless,” said Shaun Burns, a pro surfer who also works at Save the Waves. “Putting a number to it is pretty awesome and pretty groundbreaking.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That’s the positive. But there are also concerns: the quality and duration of surfable waves is changing with the climate. The 2-year study—dubbed “surfonomics”—found that as sea level rises, sandy beaches will disappear. As a Santa Cruz native, Burns has seen this happen in his lifetime. “Even in the 33 years that I’ve been around, there’s been a wave that has gone extinct,” said Burns. “I grew up boogie boarding a place that no longer breaks just because there’s not enough sand there for the wave to break far enough out to create a rideable wave.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2 class=\"ArtP-headline\">\u003ca href=\"https://www.ijpr.org/environment-energy-and-transportation/2025-11-10/one-of-the-most-intriguing-topics-new-green-cemetery-coming-to-humboldt-county\">\u003cstrong>New Green Cemetery Coming To Humboldt County\u003c/strong>\u003c/a>\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Residents of far Northern California will soon have a new option for their final resting place: Humboldt County’s first green cemetery. The Planning Commission unanimously approved the project recently.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The nonprofit \u003ca class=\"Link\" href=\"https://sacredfamilygroves.org/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Sacred Groves\u003c/a> will create an approximately 44-acre cemetery about a 30-minute drive from Eureka.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Green burial means interring an unembalmed body in a biodegradable shroud or casket, without a concrete vault or plastic liner, to promote natural decomposition. Michael Furniss, project applicant and executive director of Sacred Groves, said the soil at the site is perfect. “Good organic matter, good percolation characteristics and infiltration, good aggregate stability, rich biota and is highly fertile,” he said. “It’s really an ideal soil, and that really turns me on.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>According to \u003ca class=\"Link\" href=\"https://humboldt.legistar.com/View.ashx?M=F&ID=14898793&GUID=BE1239E3-E152-404B-9659-995D4FE5BDE3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">a staff report\u003c/a>, the carbon footprint for a green burial is one-fifteenth that of a traditional burial and one-tenth that of cremation.\u003c/p>\n\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"title": "SNAP Benefits Hung in Limbo for Weeks. It Was a Peek at Life Under Long-Term Cuts",
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"content": "\u003cp>She’d been waiting for over an hour, and Trozalla Smith was still nowhere near the front of the line.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Outside the East Oakland Collective’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12061440/calfresh-snap-ebt-shutdown-find-food-banks-near-me-san-francisco-bay-area-alameda-oakland-contra-costa-newsom-national-guard\">food pantry,\u003c/a> the mass of people stretched half a block in either direction around her. Women with babies strapped to their backs shifted their weight from one foot to another, bored kids sat on the sidewalk, and elderly men stood stiffly in place as they waited to pick up whatever was left of that week’s offerings — fresh produce, instant ramen, milk and, if they were lucky, eggs and meat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It was the end of October, and food pantries were absorbing the shock of around 5.5 million Californians anticipating \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12060770/snap-calfresh-food-stamps-government-shutdown-november-payments-ebt\">delays to their federal food benefits\u003c/a> amid the government shutdown. Unsure of the status of her aid, Smith, 24, was relying entirely on pantries to feed herself and her boyfriend. “It’s our lifeline,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The uncertainty was only the latest reminder of how precarious life on the economic margins already is. The struggle to afford one of the country’s most expensive regions, with grocery prices still soaring, started long before the shutdown and will continue long after it finally ended on Nov. 12.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For two weeks, the country’s largest anti-hunger program hung in the balance — and it may have been only a glimpse of what’s to come.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As Smith and thousands more across the Bay Area scrambled to get by during the shutdown, state leaders were wrestling with a more enduring threat to food aid: policy changes recently signed into law by President Trump that \u003ca href=\"https://calbudgetcenter.org/resources/federal-funding-cuts-to-snap-calfresh-will-have-sweeping-impacts-on-californians/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">are expected to reduce\u003c/a> benefits for over 3 million California households.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064444\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064444\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00687_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00687_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00687_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00687_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith arrives at the Alameda Food Bank on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>New eligibility limits and benefit reductions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act \u003ca href=\"https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Detail/5090\">mean some 400,000 to 750,000 Californians\u003c/a> could lose access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program altogether, according to estimates by the state Legislative Analyst’s Office and policy experts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And all the recent attention on SNAP has \u003ca href=\"https://newrepublic.com/article/203120/trump-snap-food-stamps\">placed the program\u003c/a> in the Trump administration’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.politico.com/news/2025/11/14/trump-usda-snap-participants-reapply-benefits-00651874\">crosshairs\u003c/a>, leading many to brace for still more blows to food aid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“These are unprecedented changes to the program that will have impacts for many years,” David Swanson Hollinger, chief deputy director at the California Department of Social Services, \u003ca href=\"https://www.senate.ca.gov/media-archive?time%5bmedia-element-18223%5d=2999.428751\">told a state Senate committee\u003c/a> last week, warning that lawmakers will have to “reimagine our path forward.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>‘Everything is so expensive’\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Some of the newly enacted changes haven’t yet rolled out in California, and others are just beginning to take effect, but staff at the East Oakland Collective said they’d heard from several clients who unexpectedly had their benefits cut in October.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Among them was Monica Thompson, a 64-year-old who has breast cancer and was one of the first to get in line that morning. Her assistance was cut from about $300 down to $24, she said, screwing up her face. “What can I do with $24?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the last week of October, the collective had already served 100 more families than usual, according to executive director Candice Elder.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064446\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064446\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00936_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00936_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00936_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00936_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Shopping carts are parked around the Alameda Food Bank on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Standing in line that morning, a pregnant woman with a toddler in a stroller checked the state benefits app on her phone for updates. “November benefits will likely be delayed,” Taylor Ducote read, scrolling through the FAQs with exasperation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The fear that we have to live with every day until we find out if we’re going to get it or not … it’s just really nerve-wracking and scary for our kids,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Ducote had just gotten housing four months earlier after half a decade of homelessness, and she wondered aloud how she’d pay her rent and utilities if she had to buy food out of pocket. Already, she was desperate by the end of the month.[aside postID=news_12061440 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/06/013_KQED_SanFranciscoMarinFoodBank_03182020_9229_qed.jpg']The night before, she said, she got caught stealing from a grocery store. She didn’t get arrested, but she was humiliated. “You think I want to be right here stealing so my son can get milk?” she had told the security guard. “Look what I’m stealing: toilet paper, diapers.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A few miles away, Ana Hoover, 54, stood in line at the Berkeley Food Pantry. She said she’d been out of work since December and was relying on food stamps, pantries and occasional gigs she found through an event staffing company or on NextDoor to make ends meet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Every month, she used up her SNAP benefits at least two weeks before they were replenished.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Like Ducote, the prospect of losing them altogether left her unsure about how she’d stay housed and take care of other basic needs. She’d been homeless for three years until recently, and she now pays $1,050 a month for a room at the YMCA.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Everything is so expensive,” she said. “Food stamps doesn’t cover toothpaste, toothbrushes … [and] now the money is also going for food.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064885\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064885\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith shops at the Alameda Food Bank on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The added stress of losing her $300 in food aid rippled across her life in ways big and small. It put more obstacles on her path back to the workforce. How would she pay for transportation to jobs? She rationed the mascara, lipstick and deodorant that gave her the confidence to go to interviews.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She had a gig coming up as an usher for an event at the Moscone Center, and she needed an all-black outfit. “I went into a panic because I’m like, ‘Oh, my God, I need to buy black shoes.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She aims to apply for three jobs a day. “I need to be focusing,” she said. “When you’re almost in a panic, how can you focus and how can you be productive?”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The power of choice\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The next week, Smith pushed a shopping cart through the Alameda Food Bank. She had applied for CalFresh, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12063660/california-moves-to-protect-calfresh-payments-from-federal-confusion-and-chaos\">California’s version of SNAP\u003c/a>, in early October, after she lost her job as a home health aide, and she received emergency benefits for the month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While she waited on approval, she created a daily schedule of food pantries and bused from one to another, patching together meals from the hodgepodge of dry goods and produce available and figuring out which were worth her time. This bank, with its brand new building and heaping bins of apples and potatoes, was one of the best she’d found.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064445\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064445\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00731_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00731_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00731_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00731_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith shops at the Alameda Food Bank on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Today, she was most excited about the fresh strawberries — usually too expensive to buy, and often starting to mold by the time she found them at food pantries. Those pantries rely heavily on the Alameda County Community Food Bank, which fills their shelves with a mix of food from federal programs, donations, bulk farm purchases and surplus groceries that are sometimes on the verge of expiring.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You have to eat it that day or the next, which makes it hard,” Smith said. These berries, though, looked perfectly fresh.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Each bin listed an item limit on the side, so Smith had learned to shop carefully. “You can get four apples,” she said, hunting through the bin for the largest she could find. “You’ll get fuller with a bigger apple, but they tend to be more bruised. It’s a bit like a scavenger hunt.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That the new, sprawling food bank was designed to mimic the experience of shopping wasn’t lost on Smith. “I like this place because it makes you feel more like a regular person,” she said. “You get to shop for your food.”[aside postID=news_12063723 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251110-COLLEGE-STUDENTS-CALFRESH-MD-01-KQED.jpg']She was grateful for the semblance of choice, but what the SNAP program provided was the real thing — something people pointed out again and again as they faced the prospect of going without their benefits.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I get to cook. I refuse to go to them fast-food places,” said Anthony Cassidy, standing outside the food bank with a basket full of fruits and vegetables. “I like making stew.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The 75-year-old Vietnam War veteran said he spent decades addicted to heroin, in and out of prison and homelessness, and was now sober and stably housed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m bound and determined to live out my days healthy and free,” he said. “SNAP has really helped me, allowed me to get some food that I like instead of stuff that I had to get.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In a single week, Smith spent some 20 hours busing to and from six pantries, waiting in line and picking up food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My body’s tired today, really tired,” she said, the day after her trip to the Alameda Food Bank. She was back in East Oakland, making her way to the bus stop after visiting two food pantries on MacArthur Boulevard. She struggled under the weight of three heavy tote bags loaded with watermelon, butternut squash, potatoes and pears. In her free hand, she balanced a pizza, an unexpected pantry score.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s definitely going to hurt later on tonight,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064448\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064448\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01284_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01284_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01284_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01284_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith stands across advertisements for CalFresh as she holds her groceries from the Alameda Food Bank at the 12th Street BART Station in Oakland on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Smith has lupus, an autoimmune condition that makes her joints ache and some days, leaves her too exhausted to get out of bed. She was diagnosed at 8 years old, she said, after a series of mysterious rashes, fevers and aches had perplexed doctors for nearly two years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In 2023, the illness forced her to come home from college at Emory University in Atlanta. She developed pericarditis, a swelling of the tissue surrounding her heart, and doctors recommended she take a break.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I was on a lot of steroids, couldn’t walk at that point,” she said. Still, she was devastated to leave the school, where she was on a pre-med track. “I loved it so much,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Back home after a 30-minute bus ride and 10-minute walk, Smith and her boyfriend, 24-year-old Kelinde Secrease, hoisted the groceries onto the counter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She pulled eggs from a tote triumphantly. The pantries often ran out, and she’d gotten in line an hour and a half before the East Oakland Collective opened in order to bring these home.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064450\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064450\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01577_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01577_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01577_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01577_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith puts away groceries from the Alameda food bank in her fridge at her family home in San Leandro on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>A few days earlier, Secrease had caught himself doing something he hadn’t done in a long time: wondering what he wanted to eat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I had a realization where I was like, wow — even being able to say ‘What do I want to eat?’ is a very powerful statement that I’m very grateful for,” he said. Before they’d learned to navigate the patchwork of pantries in the area, with Smith out of work and his own hours stuck at just 12 a week, food had been so limited that eating stopped feeling like a choice at all.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Having choices allowed him to enjoy food again. “It doesn’t feel so laborious having to eat because you’re eating something that you really don’t want to,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For people like Smith and Secrease, going without federal food aid doesn’t necessarily mean going hungry. But it pushes their already precarious budget to the breaking point, forcing them to scramble for rent and utilities, bus fare, tampons and toothpaste. Necessity strips away choice, and with it, the small freedoms that make life feel like more than survival. “When you have options, you have freedom,” Secrease said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For the moment, the couple figured they had enough food to last them a week. Smith was relieved she’d have that time to focus on applying for jobs and tending to her health. But first they had to chop, freeze, roast and juice their way through the small mountain of produce to keep it from going to waste. After six hours in the kitchen, they had a freezer and refrigerator full of food.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Some relief, but uncertainty remains\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>A week into November, Hoover stood in the YMCA residence’s shared kitchen, chopping onion, potato and bell pepper to add to a roasting pan where a whole chicken sizzled in the oven.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I love to cook, it’s one of my favorite things to do,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She’d gotten the bird for under $10 at Trader Joe’s; the rest of the meal came from the Berkeley Food Pantry.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064440\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064440\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00103_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00103_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00103_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00103_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Ana Hoover checks out her groceries at her local Trader Joe’s in Berkeley on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>With the month’s food stamps still in limbo amid federal court challenges and the ongoing government shutdown, she called the state’s EBT helpline, hoping for answers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Your CalFresh balance is $0.61,” a recorded voice said. “You have one future benefit added to the account. CalFresh benefits available on Nov. 10 for $298.00.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Oh, my God, what a lifesaver!” Hoover said. “Oh, my God.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She covered her face with her hands and burst into tears. “The stress level — feeling like, how am I going to do this,” she said. “You have no idea what relief.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064441\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064441\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00125_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00125_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00125_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00125_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Ana Hoover, whose SNAP benefits were delayed by the government shutdown, uses her EBT card to pay for her groceries at her local Trader Joe’s in Berkeley on Nov. 13, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Earlier that week, Smith had come home from a three-hour food pantry trip to a letter from the county. Her CalFresh benefits were being denied, the letter explained, because she had not submitted proof of income. She was deflated and frustrated. “I don’t understand. I don’t have any income,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>By mid-November, Smith had landed a part-time nanny position, Secrease was working full-time, midnight to 7 a.m., training robots to fold clothes and bus tables, and Hoover was still picking up gigs while applying for jobs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Smith was again waiting to hear back about her CalFresh case after submitting new income documents, and Hoover had $58 left in her account — just enough to make a Thanksgiving meal with the free turkey she’d learned a local pantry was offering.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064439\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064439\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00089_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00089_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00089_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00089_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Ana Hoover shops at her local Trader Joe’s in Berkeley on Nov. 13, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For both women, the last month had deepened their distrust of a system meant to catch them when they fell. “I have always felt that these types of benefits could end anytime,” Hoover said, but that fear no longer feels hypothetical.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Republicans have long sought to cut federal funding for food benefits, implement stricter work requirements and shift the burden to states. After Trump signed some of those restrictions into law this year, the shutdown showed what could follow if federal benefits are further curtailed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Smith took some comfort in knowing she found a way forward through sheer tenacity, but the effort had caused her lupus to flare.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As she lay in bed, she hoped the food in the freezer would last long enough for her to recover. Then she’d pull up her pantry schedule, pack her tote bags and do it all over again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad floatright]\u003c/p>\n",
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"excerpt": "The shutdown is over, but the panic over delayed benefits is only the latest reminder of how precarious life is on the economic margins — and what could come under cuts by the Trump administration.",
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"title": "SNAP Benefits Hung in Limbo for Weeks. It Was a Peek at Life Under Long-Term Cuts | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003cp>She’d been waiting for over an hour, and Trozalla Smith was still nowhere near the front of the line.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Outside the East Oakland Collective’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12061440/calfresh-snap-ebt-shutdown-find-food-banks-near-me-san-francisco-bay-area-alameda-oakland-contra-costa-newsom-national-guard\">food pantry,\u003c/a> the mass of people stretched half a block in either direction around her. Women with babies strapped to their backs shifted their weight from one foot to another, bored kids sat on the sidewalk, and elderly men stood stiffly in place as they waited to pick up whatever was left of that week’s offerings — fresh produce, instant ramen, milk and, if they were lucky, eggs and meat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It was the end of October, and food pantries were absorbing the shock of around 5.5 million Californians anticipating \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12060770/snap-calfresh-food-stamps-government-shutdown-november-payments-ebt\">delays to their federal food benefits\u003c/a> amid the government shutdown. Unsure of the status of her aid, Smith, 24, was relying entirely on pantries to feed herself and her boyfriend. “It’s our lifeline,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The uncertainty was only the latest reminder of how precarious life on the economic margins already is. The struggle to afford one of the country’s most expensive regions, with grocery prices still soaring, started long before the shutdown and will continue long after it finally ended on Nov. 12.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For two weeks, the country’s largest anti-hunger program hung in the balance — and it may have been only a glimpse of what’s to come.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As Smith and thousands more across the Bay Area scrambled to get by during the shutdown, state leaders were wrestling with a more enduring threat to food aid: policy changes recently signed into law by President Trump that \u003ca href=\"https://calbudgetcenter.org/resources/federal-funding-cuts-to-snap-calfresh-will-have-sweeping-impacts-on-californians/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">are expected to reduce\u003c/a> benefits for over 3 million California households.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064444\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064444\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00687_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00687_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00687_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00687_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith arrives at the Alameda Food Bank on Friday, Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>New eligibility limits and benefit reductions in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act \u003ca href=\"https://lao.ca.gov/Publications/Detail/5090\">mean some 400,000 to 750,000 Californians\u003c/a> could lose access to the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program altogether, according to estimates by the state Legislative Analyst’s Office and policy experts.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>And all the recent attention on SNAP has \u003ca href=\"https://newrepublic.com/article/203120/trump-snap-food-stamps\">placed the program\u003c/a> in the Trump administration’s \u003ca href=\"https://www.politico.com/news/2025/11/14/trump-usda-snap-participants-reapply-benefits-00651874\">crosshairs\u003c/a>, leading many to brace for still more blows to food aid.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“These are unprecedented changes to the program that will have impacts for many years,” David Swanson Hollinger, chief deputy director at the California Department of Social Services, \u003ca href=\"https://www.senate.ca.gov/media-archive?time%5bmedia-element-18223%5d=2999.428751\">told a state Senate committee\u003c/a> last week, warning that lawmakers will have to “reimagine our path forward.”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>‘Everything is so expensive’\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>Some of the newly enacted changes haven’t yet rolled out in California, and others are just beginning to take effect, but staff at the East Oakland Collective said they’d heard from several clients who unexpectedly had their benefits cut in October.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Among them was Monica Thompson, a 64-year-old who has breast cancer and was one of the first to get in line that morning. Her assistance was cut from about $300 down to $24, she said, screwing up her face. “What can I do with $24?”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In the last week of October, the collective had already served 100 more families than usual, according to executive director Candice Elder.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064446\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064446\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00936_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00936_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00936_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00936_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Shopping carts are parked around the Alameda Food Bank on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Standing in line that morning, a pregnant woman with a toddler in a stroller checked the state benefits app on her phone for updates. “November benefits will likely be delayed,” Taylor Ducote read, scrolling through the FAQs with exasperation.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“The fear that we have to live with every day until we find out if we’re going to get it or not … it’s just really nerve-wracking and scary for our kids,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Ducote had just gotten housing four months earlier after half a decade of homelessness, and she wondered aloud how she’d pay her rent and utilities if she had to buy food out of pocket. Already, she was desperate by the end of the month.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>The night before, she said, she got caught stealing from a grocery store. She didn’t get arrested, but she was humiliated. “You think I want to be right here stealing so my son can get milk?” she had told the security guard. “Look what I’m stealing: toilet paper, diapers.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>A few miles away, Ana Hoover, 54, stood in line at the Berkeley Food Pantry. She said she’d been out of work since December and was relying on food stamps, pantries and occasional gigs she found through an event staffing company or on NextDoor to make ends meet.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Every month, she used up her SNAP benefits at least two weeks before they were replenished.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Like Ducote, the prospect of losing them altogether left her unsure about how she’d stay housed and take care of other basic needs. She’d been homeless for three years until recently, and she now pays $1,050 a month for a room at the YMCA.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Everything is so expensive,” she said. “Food stamps doesn’t cover toothpaste, toothbrushes … [and] now the money is also going for food.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064885\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064885\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPdelaysfeature00921_TV_qed-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith shops at the Alameda Food Bank on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The added stress of losing her $300 in food aid rippled across her life in ways big and small. It put more obstacles on her path back to the workforce. How would she pay for transportation to jobs? She rationed the mascara, lipstick and deodorant that gave her the confidence to go to interviews.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She had a gig coming up as an usher for an event at the Moscone Center, and she needed an all-black outfit. “I went into a panic because I’m like, ‘Oh, my God, I need to buy black shoes.’”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She aims to apply for three jobs a day. “I need to be focusing,” she said. “When you’re almost in a panic, how can you focus and how can you be productive?”\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>The power of choice\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>The next week, Smith pushed a shopping cart through the Alameda Food Bank. She had applied for CalFresh, \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/12063660/california-moves-to-protect-calfresh-payments-from-federal-confusion-and-chaos\">California’s version of SNAP\u003c/a>, in early October, after she lost her job as a home health aide, and she received emergency benefits for the month.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While she waited on approval, she created a daily schedule of food pantries and bused from one to another, patching together meals from the hodgepodge of dry goods and produce available and figuring out which were worth her time. This bank, with its brand new building and heaping bins of apples and potatoes, was one of the best she’d found.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064445\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064445\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00731_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00731_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00731_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00731_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith shops at the Alameda Food Bank on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Today, she was most excited about the fresh strawberries — usually too expensive to buy, and often starting to mold by the time she found them at food pantries. Those pantries rely heavily on the Alameda County Community Food Bank, which fills their shelves with a mix of food from federal programs, donations, bulk farm purchases and surplus groceries that are sometimes on the verge of expiring.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“You have to eat it that day or the next, which makes it hard,” Smith said. These berries, though, looked perfectly fresh.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Each bin listed an item limit on the side, so Smith had learned to shop carefully. “You can get four apples,” she said, hunting through the bin for the largest she could find. “You’ll get fuller with a bigger apple, but they tend to be more bruised. It’s a bit like a scavenger hunt.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That the new, sprawling food bank was designed to mimic the experience of shopping wasn’t lost on Smith. “I like this place because it makes you feel more like a regular person,” she said. “You get to shop for your food.”\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>She was grateful for the semblance of choice, but what the SNAP program provided was the real thing — something people pointed out again and again as they faced the prospect of going without their benefits.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I get to cook. I refuse to go to them fast-food places,” said Anthony Cassidy, standing outside the food bank with a basket full of fruits and vegetables. “I like making stew.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>The 75-year-old Vietnam War veteran said he spent decades addicted to heroin, in and out of prison and homelessness, and was now sober and stably housed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I’m bound and determined to live out my days healthy and free,” he said. “SNAP has really helped me, allowed me to get some food that I like instead of stuff that I had to get.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In a single week, Smith spent some 20 hours busing to and from six pantries, waiting in line and picking up food.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“My body’s tired today, really tired,” she said, the day after her trip to the Alameda Food Bank. She was back in East Oakland, making her way to the bus stop after visiting two food pantries on MacArthur Boulevard. She struggled under the weight of three heavy tote bags loaded with watermelon, butternut squash, potatoes and pears. In her free hand, she balanced a pizza, an unexpected pantry score.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s definitely going to hurt later on tonight,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064448\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064448\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01284_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01284_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01284_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01284_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith stands across advertisements for CalFresh as she holds her groceries from the Alameda Food Bank at the 12th Street BART Station in Oakland on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Smith has lupus, an autoimmune condition that makes her joints ache and some days, leaves her too exhausted to get out of bed. She was diagnosed at 8 years old, she said, after a series of mysterious rashes, fevers and aches had perplexed doctors for nearly two years.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>In 2023, the illness forced her to come home from college at Emory University in Atlanta. She developed pericarditis, a swelling of the tissue surrounding her heart, and doctors recommended she take a break.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I was on a lot of steroids, couldn’t walk at that point,” she said. Still, she was devastated to leave the school, where she was on a pre-med track. “I loved it so much,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Back home after a 30-minute bus ride and 10-minute walk, Smith and her boyfriend, 24-year-old Kelinde Secrease, hoisted the groceries onto the counter.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She pulled eggs from a tote triumphantly. The pantries often ran out, and she’d gotten in line an hour and a half before the East Oakland Collective opened in order to bring these home.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064450\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064450\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01577_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01577_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01577_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE01577_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Trozalla Smith puts away groceries from the Alameda food bank in her fridge at her family home in San Leandro on Nov. 14, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>A few days earlier, Secrease had caught himself doing something he hadn’t done in a long time: wondering what he wanted to eat.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I had a realization where I was like, wow — even being able to say ‘What do I want to eat?’ is a very powerful statement that I’m very grateful for,” he said. Before they’d learned to navigate the patchwork of pantries in the area, with Smith out of work and his own hours stuck at just 12 a week, food had been so limited that eating stopped feeling like a choice at all.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Having choices allowed him to enjoy food again. “It doesn’t feel so laborious having to eat because you’re eating something that you really don’t want to,” he said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For people like Smith and Secrease, going without federal food aid doesn’t necessarily mean going hungry. But it pushes their already precarious budget to the breaking point, forcing them to scramble for rent and utilities, bus fare, tampons and toothpaste. Necessity strips away choice, and with it, the small freedoms that make life feel like more than survival. “When you have options, you have freedom,” Secrease said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>For the moment, the couple figured they had enough food to last them a week. Smith was relieved she’d have that time to focus on applying for jobs and tending to her health. But first they had to chop, freeze, roast and juice their way through the small mountain of produce to keep it from going to waste. After six hours in the kitchen, they had a freezer and refrigerator full of food.\u003c/p>\n\u003ch2>Some relief, but uncertainty remains\u003c/h2>\n\u003cp>A week into November, Hoover stood in the YMCA residence’s shared kitchen, chopping onion, potato and bell pepper to add to a roasting pan where a whole chicken sizzled in the oven.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“I love to cook, it’s one of my favorite things to do,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She’d gotten the bird for under $10 at Trader Joe’s; the rest of the meal came from the Berkeley Food Pantry.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064440\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064440\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00103_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00103_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00103_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00103_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Ana Hoover checks out her groceries at her local Trader Joe’s in Berkeley on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>With the month’s food stamps still in limbo amid federal court challenges and the ongoing government shutdown, she called the state’s EBT helpline, hoping for answers.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Your CalFresh balance is $0.61,” a recorded voice said. “You have one future benefit added to the account. CalFresh benefits available on Nov. 10 for $298.00.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“Oh, my God, what a lifesaver!” Hoover said. “Oh, my God.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>She covered her face with her hands and burst into tears. “The stress level — feeling like, how am I going to do this,” she said. “You have no idea what relief.”\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064441\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064441\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00125_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00125_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00125_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00125_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Ana Hoover, whose SNAP benefits were delayed by the government shutdown, uses her EBT card to pay for her groceries at her local Trader Joe’s in Berkeley on Nov. 13, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>Earlier that week, Smith had come home from a three-hour food pantry trip to a letter from the county. Her CalFresh benefits were being denied, the letter explained, because she had not submitted proof of income. She was deflated and frustrated. “I don’t understand. I don’t have any income,” she said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>By mid-November, Smith had landed a part-time nanny position, Secrease was working full-time, midnight to 7 a.m., training robots to fold clothes and bus tables, and Hoover was still picking up gigs while applying for jobs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Smith was again waiting to hear back about her CalFresh case after submitting new income documents, and Hoover had $58 left in her account — just enough to make a Thanksgiving meal with the free turkey she’d learned a local pantry was offering.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064439\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064439\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00089_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00089_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00089_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251113-SNAPDELAYSFEATURE00089_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">Ana Hoover shops at her local Trader Joe’s in Berkeley on Nov. 13, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>For both women, the last month had deepened their distrust of a system meant to catch them when they fell. “I have always felt that these types of benefits could end anytime,” Hoover said, but that fear no longer feels hypothetical.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Republicans have long sought to cut federal funding for food benefits, implement stricter work requirements and shift the burden to states. After Trump signed some of those restrictions into law this year, the shutdown showed what could follow if federal benefits are further curtailed.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Smith took some comfort in knowing she found a way forward through sheer tenacity, but the effort had caused her lupus to flare.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As she lay in bed, she hoped the food in the freezer would last long enough for her to recover. Then she’d pull up her pantry schedule, pack her tote bags and do it all over again.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"slug": "from-rust-to-robots-the-east-bay-bids-for-a-high-tech-revival",
"title": "From Rust to Robots, the East Bay Bids for a High-Tech Revival",
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"headTitle": "From Rust to Robots, the East Bay Bids for a High-Tech Revival | KQED",
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"content": "\u003cp>After a year of testing and tooling around \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/tag/san-francisco\">San Francisco\u003c/a> city streets, Zoox announced it is making its robotaxis available to the public, starting with free rides for those who join a waitlist.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Zoox’s green vehicles are eye-catching. They aren’t built like cars. They have no steering wheel or pedals, all four seats face inward and some people refer to them as toasters on wheels.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>They’re notable in another way, too. They’re \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lfAt803DQMw\">manufactured in Hayward\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>[ad fullwidth]\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As factory jobs continue their decades-long decline across the country, the East Bay is doubling down on precision manufacturing, betting its proximity to Silicon Valley’s labs and talent pools will help lift a slumping industrial base into a new era. Alameda County’s manufacturing sector expanded by 10% over the same period, reaching nearly 94,000 jobs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Old timers will recall that the East Bay has a storied history of building cars, most famously the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/201005210900/tesla-and-toyota-at-nummi\">NUMMI\u003c/a> plant in Fremont, taken over by \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101883541/the-unpredictable-volatile-world-of-elon-musk-and-tesla\">Tesla\u003c/a> in 2010, now operating the biggest auto plant in the United States.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But ask anyone at Zoox and they’ll tell you, they’re not building cars. They’re designing robots that happen to carry people.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064734\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064734\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED-160x90.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED-1200x675.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A Zoox robo taxi is assembled at the company’s manufacturing facility in Hayward. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Zoox, Inc.)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“We do not classify ourselves as in the automotive sector. We are in the robotic sector,” said Corrado Lanzone, vice president of manufacturing operations at Zoox, acquired by \u003ca href=\"https://apnews.com/article/amazon-zoox-robotaxis-manufacturing-plant-8c34ae849ccb10eaa7e6e5266d6de8e8\">Amazon\u003c/a> in 2020.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lanzone told KQED that one of Hayward’s biggest benefits is its proximity to Silicon Valley and its \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11732182/is-the-future-of-automotive-engineering-in-silicon-valley-ask-this-german-auto-giant\">culture of innovation\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That means the mechanical engineers in Hayward have an easier time collaborating with the software engineers at Zoox’s headquarters in Foster City.[aside postID=news_12064374 hero='https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/TeslaFremontGetty.jpg']Zoox launched its manufacturing operation in a 220,000-square-foot, repurposed \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Ds6QiEp9yg\">Gillig bus \u003c/a>manufacturing facility last June, and ultimately hopes to produce up to 10,000 vehicles a year. While about 100 people work for Zoox in Hayward today, the company anticipates hiring more.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s not just Hayward driving the advanced manufacturing bus in Alameda County. Fremont and Newark are doing it, too, according to the \u003ca href=\"https://www.resilienteastbay.org\">East Bay Economic Development Alliance\u003c/a>, a public-private partnership covering Alameda and Contra Costa counties.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Together, the three cities have positioned themselves as an \u003ca href=\"https://www.resilienteastbay.org/map/\">emerging regional hub\u003c/a> for high‑value sectors like advanced transportation, biomedical, food and beverage, climate tech, and, yes, robotics. Fremont hosts Tesla, Applied Materials, and dozens of precision-hardware suppliers. Newark hosts Lucid Motors’ engineering and prototype plant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>By protecting industrial land, expediting permits, and modernizing infrastructure, the three cities have drawn a concentration of robotics, electric vehicle, biotech-hardware and clean-tech manufacturers that did not exist at this scale 15 years ago.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064736\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064736\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/250730-WAYMOFILE_00136_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/250730-WAYMOFILE_00136_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/250730-WAYMOFILE_00136_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/250730-WAYMOFILE_00136_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A Zoox autonomous vehicle drives through 16th Street and Potrero in San Francisco on July 22, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The Bay Area is too expensive to lure most manufacturing work, but because of its established base of technological talent, companies like Zoox find an attractive value proposition in building things close to headquarters, “especially in the early stages of trying to fine tune and commercialize a product that’s going to be made at scale,” said Stephen Baiter, executive director of the East Bay Economic Development Alliance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Baiter calls what’s happening in the region a “convergence effect.” That is to say, companies like Tesla, Applied Materials and Zoox are capitalizing on the regional talent pool, its strong research and development ecosystem, availability of production space, and supportive local economic development policies as reasons why the region is an attractive place to scale operations.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While the East Bay’s biggest employers are education, health services, and professional/technical services, manufacturing is a major player, and one that’s growing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s anywhere between 20 to 30% of our gross regional product. Employment-wise, it’s closer to 10%. But still a substantial sector, however you want to slice it,” Baiter said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>As factory jobs continue their decades-long decline across the country, the East Bay is doubling down on precision manufacturing, betting its proximity to Silicon Valley’s labs and talent pools will help lift a slumping industrial base into a new era. Alameda County’s manufacturing sector expanded by 10% over the same period, reaching nearly 94,000 jobs.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Old timers will recall that the East Bay has a storied history of building cars, most famously the \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/201005210900/tesla-and-toyota-at-nummi\">NUMMI\u003c/a> plant in Fremont, taken over by \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/forum/2010101883541/the-unpredictable-volatile-world-of-elon-musk-and-tesla\">Tesla\u003c/a> in 2010, now operating the biggest auto plant in the United States.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>But ask anyone at Zoox and they’ll tell you, they’re not building cars. They’re designing robots that happen to carry people.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064734\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064734\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1125\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED-160x90.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/251119-From-Rust-to-Robots-02-KQED-1200x675.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A Zoox robo taxi is assembled at the company’s manufacturing facility in Hayward. \u003ccite>(Courtesy of Zoox, Inc.)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>“We do not classify ourselves as in the automotive sector. We are in the robotic sector,” said Corrado Lanzone, vice president of manufacturing operations at Zoox, acquired by \u003ca href=\"https://apnews.com/article/amazon-zoox-robotaxis-manufacturing-plant-8c34ae849ccb10eaa7e6e5266d6de8e8\">Amazon\u003c/a> in 2020.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Lanzone told KQED that one of Hayward’s biggest benefits is its proximity to Silicon Valley and its \u003ca href=\"https://www.kqed.org/news/11732182/is-the-future-of-automotive-engineering-in-silicon-valley-ask-this-german-auto-giant\">culture of innovation\u003c/a>.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>That means the mechanical engineers in Hayward have an easier time collaborating with the software engineers at Zoox’s headquarters in Foster City.\u003c/p>\u003c/div>",
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"content": "\u003cdiv class=\"post-body\">\u003cp>Zoox launched its manufacturing operation in a 220,000-square-foot, repurposed \u003ca href=\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Ds6QiEp9yg\">Gillig bus \u003c/a>manufacturing facility last June, and ultimately hopes to produce up to 10,000 vehicles a year. While about 100 people work for Zoox in Hayward today, the company anticipates hiring more.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>It’s not just Hayward driving the advanced manufacturing bus in Alameda County. Fremont and Newark are doing it, too, according to the \u003ca href=\"https://www.resilienteastbay.org\">East Bay Economic Development Alliance\u003c/a>, a public-private partnership covering Alameda and Contra Costa counties.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Together, the three cities have positioned themselves as an \u003ca href=\"https://www.resilienteastbay.org/map/\">emerging regional hub\u003c/a> for high‑value sectors like advanced transportation, biomedical, food and beverage, climate tech, and, yes, robotics. Fremont hosts Tesla, Applied Materials, and dozens of precision-hardware suppliers. Newark hosts Lucid Motors’ engineering and prototype plant.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>By protecting industrial land, expediting permits, and modernizing infrastructure, the three cities have drawn a concentration of robotics, electric vehicle, biotech-hardware and clean-tech manufacturers that did not exist at this scale 15 years ago.\u003c/p>\n\u003cfigure id=\"attachment_12064736\" class=\"wp-caption aligncenter\" style=\"max-width: 2000px\">\u003cimg loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-12064736\" src=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/250730-WAYMOFILE_00136_TV-KQED.jpg\" alt=\"\" width=\"2000\" height=\"1333\" srcset=\"https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/250730-WAYMOFILE_00136_TV-KQED.jpg 2000w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/250730-WAYMOFILE_00136_TV-KQED-160x107.jpg 160w, https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2025/11/250730-WAYMOFILE_00136_TV-KQED-1536x1024.jpg 1536w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 2000px) 100vw, 2000px\">\u003cfigcaption class=\"wp-caption-text\">A Zoox autonomous vehicle drives through 16th Street and Potrero in San Francisco on July 22, 2025. \u003ccite>(Tâm Vũ/KQED)\u003c/cite>\u003c/figcaption>\u003c/figure>\n\u003cp>The Bay Area is too expensive to lure most manufacturing work, but because of its established base of technological talent, companies like Zoox find an attractive value proposition in building things close to headquarters, “especially in the early stages of trying to fine tune and commercialize a product that’s going to be made at scale,” said Stephen Baiter, executive director of the East Bay Economic Development Alliance.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>Baiter calls what’s happening in the region a “convergence effect.” That is to say, companies like Tesla, Applied Materials and Zoox are capitalizing on the regional talent pool, its strong research and development ecosystem, availability of production space, and supportive local economic development policies as reasons why the region is an attractive place to scale operations.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>While the East Bay’s biggest employers are education, health services, and professional/technical services, manufacturing is a major player, and one that’s growing.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>“It’s anywhere between 20 to 30% of our gross regional product. Employment-wise, it’s closer to 10%. But still a substantial sector, however you want to slice it,” Baiter said.\u003c/p>\n\u003cp>\u003c/p>\n\u003c/div>\u003c/p>",
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"id": "code-switch-life-kit",
"title": "Code Switch / Life Kit",
"info": "\u003cem>Code Switch\u003c/em>, which listeners will hear in the first part of the hour, has fearless and much-needed conversations about race. Hosted by journalists of color, the show tackles the subject of race head-on, exploring how it impacts every part of society — from politics and pop culture to history, sports and more.\u003cbr />\u003cbr />\u003cem>Life Kit\u003c/em>, which will be in the second part of the hour, guides you through spaces and feelings no one prepares you for — from finances to mental health, from workplace microaggressions to imposter syndrome, from relationships to parenting. The show features experts with real world experience and shares their knowledge. Because everyone needs a little help being human.\u003cbr />\u003cbr />\u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510312/codeswitch\">\u003cem>Code Switch\u003c/em> offical site and podcast\u003c/a>\u003cbr />\u003ca href=\"https://www.npr.org/lifekit\">\u003cem>Life Kit\u003c/em> offical site and podcast\u003c/a>\u003cbr />",
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"meta": {
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"id": "commonwealth-club",
"title": "Commonwealth Club of California Podcast",
"info": "The Commonwealth Club of California is the nation's oldest and largest public affairs forum. As a non-partisan forum, The Club brings to the public airwaves diverse viewpoints on important topics. The Club's weekly radio broadcast - the oldest in the U.S., dating back to 1924 - is carried across the nation on public radio stations and is now podcasting. Our website archive features audio of our recent programs, as well as selected speeches from our long and distinguished history. This podcast feed is usually updated twice a week and is always un-edited.",
"airtime": "THU 10pm, FRI 1am",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Commonwealth-Club-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
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"meta": {
"site": "news",
"source": "Commonwealth Club of California"
},
"link": "/radio/program/commonwealth-club",
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"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cDovL3d3dy5jb21tb253ZWFsdGhjbHViLm9yZy9hdWRpby9wb2RjYXN0L3dlZWtseS54bWw",
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"id": "forum",
"title": "Forum",
"tagline": "The conversation starts here",
"info": "KQED’s live call-in program discussing local, state, national and international issues, as well as in-depth interviews.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 9am-11am, 10pm-11pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Forum-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED Forum with Mina Kim and Alexis Madrigal",
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 9
},
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"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vS1FJTkM5NTU3MzgxNjMz",
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"id": "freakonomics-radio",
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"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2018/05/freakonomicsRadio.png",
"officialWebsiteLink": "http://freakonomics.com/",
"airtime": "SUN 1am-2am, SAT 3pm-4pm",
"meta": {
"site": "radio",
"source": "WNYC"
},
"link": "/radio/program/freakonomics-radio",
"subscribe": {
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"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/freakonomics-radio/id354668519",
"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/podcasts/WNYC-Podcasts/Freakonomics-Radio-p272293/",
"rss": "https://feeds.feedburner.com/freakonomicsradio"
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},
"fresh-air": {
"id": "fresh-air",
"title": "Fresh Air",
"info": "Hosted by Terry Gross, \u003cem>Fresh Air from WHYY\u003c/em> is the Peabody Award-winning weekday magazine of contemporary arts and issues. One of public radio's most popular programs, Fresh Air features intimate conversations with today's biggest luminaries.",
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"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?s=143441&mt=2&id=214089682&at=11l79Y&ct=nprdirectory",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/381444908/podcast.xml"
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"info": "A live production of NPR and WBUR Boston, in collaboration with stations across the country, Here & Now reflects the fluid world of news as it's happening in the middle of the day, with timely, in-depth news, interviews and conversation. Hosted by Robin Young, Jeremy Hobson and Tonya Mosley.",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510051/podcast.xml"
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},
"hidden-brain": {
"id": "hidden-brain",
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"info": "Shankar Vedantam uses science and storytelling to reveal the unconscious patterns that drive human behavior, shape our choices and direct our relationships.",
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"airtime": "SUN 7pm-8pm",
"meta": {
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"source": "NPR"
},
"link": "/radio/program/hidden-brain",
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},
"how-i-built-this": {
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"title": "How I Built This with Guy Raz",
"info": "Guy Raz dives into the stories behind some of the world's best known companies. How I Built This weaves a narrative journey about innovators, entrepreneurs and idealists—and the movements they built.",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/news/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2018/05/howIBuiltThis.png",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.npr.org/podcasts/510313/how-i-built-this",
"airtime": "SUN 7:30pm-8pm",
"meta": {
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},
"link": "/radio/program/how-i-built-this",
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"npr": "https://rpb3r.app.goo.gl/3zxy",
"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/how-i-built-this-with-guy-raz/id1150510297?mt=2",
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},
"hyphenacion": {
"id": "hyphenacion",
"title": "Hyphenación",
"tagline": "Where conversation and cultura meet",
"info": "What kind of no sabo word is Hyphenación? For us, it’s about living within a hyphenation. Like being a third-gen Mexican-American from the Texas border now living that Bay Area Chicano life. Like Xorje! Each week we bring together a couple of hyphenated Latinos to talk all about personal life choices: family, careers, relationships, belonging … everything is on the table. ",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Hyphenacion_FinalAssets_PodcastTile.png",
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"officialWebsiteLink": "/podcasts/hyphenacion",
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"order": 15
},
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"spotify": "https://open.spotify.com/show/2p3Fifq96nw9BPcmFdIq0o?si=39209f7b25774f38",
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},
"jerrybrown": {
"id": "jerrybrown",
"title": "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown",
"tagline": "Lessons from a lifetime in politics",
"info": "The Political Mind of Jerry Brown brings listeners the wisdom of the former Governor, Mayor, and presidential candidate. Scott Shafer interviewed Brown for more than 40 hours, covering the former governor's life and half-century in the political game – and Brown has some lessons he'd like to share. ",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/The-Political-Mind-of-Jerry-Brown-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED The Political Mind of Jerry Brown",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/podcasts/jerrybrown",
"meta": {
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"order": 18
},
"link": "/podcasts/jerrybrown",
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}
},
"latino-usa": {
"id": "latino-usa",
"title": "Latino USA",
"airtime": "MON 1am-2am, SUN 6pm-7pm",
"info": "Latino USA, the radio journal of news and culture, is the only national, English-language radio program produced from a Latino perspective.",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/radio/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2018/04/latinoUsa.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "http://latinousa.org/",
"meta": {
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},
"link": "/radio/program/latino-usa",
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"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewPodcast?s=143441&mt=2&id=79681317&at=11l79Y&ct=nprdirectory",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510016/podcast.xml"
}
},
"marketplace": {
"id": "marketplace",
"title": "Marketplace",
"info": "Our flagship program, helmed by Kai Ryssdal, examines what the day in money delivered, through stories, conversations, newsworthy numbers and more. Updated Monday through Friday at about 3:30 p.m. PT.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 4pm-4:30pm, MON-WED 6:30pm-7pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Marketplace-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.marketplace.org/",
"meta": {
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"source": "American Public Media"
},
"link": "/radio/program/marketplace",
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"rss": "https://feeds.publicradio.org/public_feeds/marketplace-pm/rss/rss"
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},
"masters-of-scale": {
"id": "masters-of-scale",
"title": "Masters of Scale",
"info": "Masters of Scale is an original podcast in which LinkedIn co-founder and Greylock Partner Reid Hoffman sets out to describe and prove theories that explain how great entrepreneurs take their companies from zero to a gazillion in ingenious fashion.",
"airtime": "Every other Wednesday June 12 through October 16 at 8pm (repeats Thursdays at 2am)",
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"officialWebsiteLink": "https://mastersofscale.com/",
"meta": {
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"source": "WaitWhat"
},
"link": "/radio/program/masters-of-scale",
"subscribe": {
"apple": "http://mastersofscale.app.link/",
"rss": "https://rss.art19.com/masters-of-scale"
}
},
"mindshift": {
"id": "mindshift",
"title": "MindShift",
"tagline": "A podcast about the future of learning and how we raise our kids",
"info": "The MindShift podcast explores the innovations in education that are shaping how kids learn. Hosts Ki Sung and Katrina Schwartz introduce listeners to educators, researchers, parents and students who are developing effective ways to improve how kids learn. We cover topics like how fed-up administrators are developing surprising tactics to deal with classroom disruptions; how listening to podcasts are helping kids develop reading skills; the consequences of overparenting; and why interdisciplinary learning can engage students on all ends of the traditional achievement spectrum. This podcast is part of the MindShift education site, a division of KQED News. KQED is an NPR/PBS member station based in San Francisco. You can also visit the MindShift website for episodes and supplemental blog posts or tweet us \u003ca href=\"https://twitter.com/MindShiftKQED\">@MindShiftKQED\u003c/a> or visit us at \u003ca href=\"/mindshift\">MindShift.KQED.org\u003c/a>",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Mindshift-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED MindShift: How We Will Learn",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/mindshift/",
"meta": {
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 12
},
"link": "/podcasts/mindshift",
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"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vS1FJTkM1NzY0NjAwNDI5",
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}
},
"morning-edition": {
"id": "morning-edition",
"title": "Morning Edition",
"info": "\u003cem>Morning Edition\u003c/em> takes listeners around the country and the world with multi-faceted stories and commentaries every weekday. Hosts Steve Inskeep, David Greene and Rachel Martin bring you the latest breaking news and features to prepare you for the day.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 3am-9am",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Morning-Edition-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.npr.org/programs/morning-edition/",
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"link": "/radio/program/morning-edition"
},
"onourwatch": {
"id": "onourwatch",
"title": "On Our Watch",
"tagline": "Deeply-reported investigative journalism",
"info": "For decades, the process for how police police themselves has been inconsistent – if not opaque. In some states, like California, these proceedings were completely hidden. After a new police transparency law unsealed scores of internal affairs files, our reporters set out to examine these cases and the shadow world of police discipline. On Our Watch brings listeners into the rooms where officers are questioned and witnesses are interrogated to find out who this system is really protecting. Is it the officers, or the public they've sworn to serve?",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/On-Our-Watch-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "On Our Watch from NPR and KQED",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/podcasts/onourwatch",
"meta": {
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 11
},
"link": "/podcasts/onourwatch",
"subscribe": {
"apple": "https://podcasts.apple.com/podcast/id1567098962",
"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5ucHIub3JnLzUxMDM2MC9wb2RjYXN0LnhtbD9zYz1nb29nbGVwb2RjYXN0cw",
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"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510360/podcast.xml"
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},
"on-the-media": {
"id": "on-the-media",
"title": "On The Media",
"info": "Our weekly podcast explores how the media 'sausage' is made, casts an incisive eye on fluctuations in the marketplace of ideas, and examines threats to the freedom of information and expression in America and abroad. For one hour a week, the show tries to lift the veil from the process of \"making media,\" especially news media, because it's through that lens that we see the world and the world sees us",
"airtime": "SUN 2pm-3pm, MON 12am-1am",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/radio/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2018/04/onTheMedia.png",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.wnycstudios.org/shows/otm",
"meta": {
"site": "news",
"source": "wnyc"
},
"link": "/radio/program/on-the-media",
"subscribe": {
"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/on-the-media/id73330715?mt=2",
"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/radio/On-the-Media-p69/",
"rss": "http://feeds.wnyc.org/onthemedia"
}
},
"pbs-newshour": {
"id": "pbs-newshour",
"title": "PBS NewsHour",
"info": "Analysis, background reports and updates from the PBS NewsHour putting today's news in context.",
"airtime": "MON-FRI 3pm-4pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/PBS-News-Hour-Podcast-Tile-360x360-1.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.pbs.org/newshour/",
"meta": {
"site": "news",
"source": "pbs"
},
"link": "/radio/program/pbs-newshour",
"subscribe": {
"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/pbs-newshour-full-show/id394432287?mt=2",
"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/radio/PBS-NewsHour---Full-Show-p425698/",
"rss": "https://www.pbs.org/newshour/feeds/rss/podcasts/show"
}
},
"perspectives": {
"id": "perspectives",
"title": "Perspectives",
"tagline": "KQED's series of daily listener commentaries since 1991",
"info": "KQED's series of daily listener commentaries since 1991.",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Perspectives_Tile_Final.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/perspectives/",
"meta": {
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 14
},
"link": "/perspectives",
"subscribe": {
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"npr": "https://www.npr.org/podcasts/432309616/perspectives",
"rss": "https://ww2.kqed.org/perspectives/category/perspectives/feed/",
"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93dzIua3FlZC5vcmcvcGVyc3BlY3RpdmVzL2NhdGVnb3J5L3BlcnNwZWN0aXZlcy9mZWVkLw"
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},
"planet-money": {
"id": "planet-money",
"title": "Planet Money",
"info": "The economy explained. Imagine you could call up a friend and say, Meet me at the bar and tell me what's going on with the economy. Now imagine that's actually a fun evening.",
"airtime": "SUN 3pm-4pm",
"imageSrc": "https://ww2.kqed.org/radio/wp-content/uploads/sites/50/2018/04/planetmoney.jpg",
"officialWebsiteLink": "https://www.npr.org/sections/money/",
"meta": {
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"source": "npr"
},
"link": "/radio/program/planet-money",
"subscribe": {
"npr": "https://rpb3r.app.goo.gl/M4f5",
"apple": "https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/planet-money/id290783428?mt=2",
"tuneIn": "https://tunein.com/podcasts/Business--Economics-Podcasts/Planet-Money-p164680/",
"rss": "https://feeds.npr.org/510289/podcast.xml"
}
},
"politicalbreakdown": {
"id": "politicalbreakdown",
"title": "Political Breakdown",
"tagline": "Politics from a personal perspective",
"info": "Political Breakdown is a new series that explores the political intersection of California and the nation. Each week hosts Scott Shafer and Marisa Lagos are joined with a new special guest to unpack politics -- with personality — and offer an insider’s glimpse at how politics happens.",
"airtime": "THU 6:30pm-7pm",
"imageSrc": "https://cdn.kqed.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Political-Breakdown-2024-Podcast-Tile-703x703-1.jpg",
"imageAlt": "KQED Political Breakdown",
"officialWebsiteLink": "/podcasts/politicalbreakdown",
"meta": {
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"source": "kqed",
"order": 5
},
"link": "/podcasts/politicalbreakdown",
"subscribe": {
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"google": "https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly9mZWVkcy5tZWdhcGhvbmUuZm0vS1FJTkM5Nzk2MzI2MTEx",
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