(As of June 2025)
Michigan has relaunched its Summer EBT program, also known as SUN Bucks, to support low-income families during the school break. With many children missing out on free school meals during summer, this program ensures no child goes hungry.
Eligible families can receive up to $120 per child, distributed via EBT cards for use at authorized grocery stores. Let’s dive into the eligibility rules, distribution schedule, and how to ensure your family gets the full benefit.
A new Summer EBT program offers families up to $120 per child — here’s how to receive your benefit before August 31.
What Is the Michigan SUN Bucks Program?
SUN Bucks is Michigan’s name for the federally funded Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) program. It provides $120 per eligible child to help families buy groceries during summer when school meals are unavailable.
The benefit is split into three $40 installments, typically issued monthly from June to August. Funds are loaded onto a dedicated EBT card or a family’s existing Bridge Card.
Who’s Eligible to Receive SUN Bucks?
Eligibility is based on a household’s participation in certain assistance programs or school meal services. Your child may qualify if they:
- 🍎 Receive free or reduced-price meals at school
- 📌 Are enrolled in SNAP (food stamps), TANF, or Medicaid (income-based)
- 🏠 Attend a school that offers the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)
Families do not need to apply if their child is already enrolled in one of the qualifying programs. Automatic enrollment applies in most cases.
💡 Don’t Miss Out: Up to $120 Per Child — Automatically Deposited
There’s no separate application if your child is already approved for meal assistance or SNAP. The $120 benefit will be deposited automatically onto your card. If your household is eligible but hasn’t received the benefit, you may need to contact your school or local DHS office.
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) began distributing benefits in May 2025, and all payments must be used by December 31, 2025.
Where and How Can You Use SUN Bucks?
The funds can be used just like regular EBT benefits. That means you can shop at:
- 🛒 Grocery stores and major retailers (e.g., Meijer, Walmart)
- 🥬 Farmer’s markets that accept EBT
- 🧃 For approved food items only (no alcohol, non-food goods, etc.)
The program is designed to help families stretch their grocery budgets during the highest-cost months of the year.
Need Help? Here’s What You Can Do
If you didn’t receive your benefit or aren’t sure if you’re eligible:
- 📞 Call the MDHHS customer service line
- 📄 Check your status via MI Bridges online portal
- 🏫 Contact your child’s school or district nutrition office
Remember, the application deadline for newly eligible households is August 31, 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute to confirm your status.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How much will each child receive through SUN Bucks?
Each eligible child will receive up to $120 for summer 2025, split into three monthly $40 payments.
Q2. Do I need to apply for the benefit?
No application is needed if your child is already enrolled in SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or free/reduced-price lunch programs.
Q3. What if I haven’t received any funds yet?
Check your MI Bridges account or call MDHHS. Delays may happen, especially for recent enrollments or address issues.
Q4. Can SUN Bucks be used at farmer’s markets?
Yes, SUN Bucks are treated like EBT and can be used at any location that accepts SNAP, including approved farmer’s markets.
Q5. When is the deadline to use the funds?
All SUN Bucks must be used by December 31, 2025. Unused funds will be forfeited.
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS)