(As of June 2025)
Summer EBT—also known as SUN Bucks—offers eligible children $120 over three months to help low-income families afford groceries during summer break.
This program, available in over 40 states, automatically enrolls most eligible households, with others applying via state agencies.
Below is a full guide to eligibility, issuance, and application steps for Summer EBT in 2025.
Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) provides $120 per eligible child—here’s eligibility, timing, and how to apply.
What is Summer EBT?
Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) is a benefits program run by the USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service. It issues $120 per eligible school-age child—equivalent to $40/month for June through August—to families who lose access to free school meals during summer break :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}.
It supplements existing SNAP, WIC, and free/reduced-price school meal programs to reduce food insecurity when school is out of session.
Who is eligible for Summer EBT?
Eligibility includes:
- Any child aged ~6–17 enrolled in schools offering free or reduced-price meals
- Children from households receiving SNAP, TANF, Medicaid (at or below 185% FPL)
Illinois, for example, auto-enrolls based on school lunch program eligibility or federal benefits receipt :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}. In most participating states, families just wait for a letter or card; others must apply via state portal.
📢 Summer EBT enrollment & issuance timelines
Most benefits are issued late May to June 2025. Illinois scheduled issuance between May 19–26 :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}, while New York started June 18 and continues throughout summer :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}. Michigan accepts applications through August 31 :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
How to apply if you’re not auto-enrolled
- Go to your state’s Summer EBT portal (e.g., Illinois uses abe.illinois.gov) :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
- Complete a simple form and provide proof of eligibility (income or school data).
- Wait for your EBT/SUN Bucks card or SNAP balance reload—typically within weeks.
Where you can use the benefits
Fresh, frozen, or canned groceries—SNAP-authorized retail stores, farmers’ markets, and online retailers are accepted :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
Eligibility does not affect other SNAP benefits.
What if my state isn’t participating?
Some states like Texas and Idaho opted out or paused SUN Bucks in 2025 :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}. If your state doesn’t participate, contact your local Food & Nutrition Service office or advocacy groups to request inclusion next year.
Why it matters
USDA estimates show 21 million children received Summer EBT in 2024 :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}. It’s critical: many children lose access to free meals during summer, and this ensures consistent nutrition.
Supporters argue this program not only addresses hunger but also stimulates local economies :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Is it automatic or do I need to apply?
Most eligible households are auto-enrolled using school lunch or SNAP data. Others must apply through their state Summer EBT portal.
Q2. How much will I actually receive?
A total of $120 per eligible child—issued once for the summer period (i.e., $40/month for three months).
Q3. Can the card be used anywhere?
Yes, it works anywhere SNAP is accepted, including authorized grocery stores and select farmers markets.
Q4. Are there income or citizenship requirements?
Income eligibility is at ≤185% of FPL; citizenship status doesn’t matter for children if school eligibility or joint-benefit data apply.
Q5. What if my state opts out?
States not participating include Texas, Idaho, Wyoming, and others. Contact your state USDA FNS office to ask for future inclusion.