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Summer EBT (SUN Bucks): Who Gets It and How It Works

Summer EBT gives families money for food during school breaks. Learn if your children qualify and how to apply.

Program rules & income limits
  • Published Sep 21, 2026
  • Reviewed Sep 21, 2026
  • 3 min read
Children playing in a backyard sprinkler in summer

Quick answer: Summer EBT (sometimes called SUN Bucks) gives families money to buy food when school is not in session. Children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals usually qualify for Summer EBT.

What is Summer EBT?

Summer EBT is a federal program that helps low-income families buy food when school is closed for the summer. Instead of getting free meals at school, eligible children get money on a card to buy groceries.

The program is run by the USDA (U.S. Department of Agriculture). Each state decides how much money families get and how the program works in that state.

Who qualifies for Summer EBT?

Your child may qualify if:

  • They are between 1 and 18 years old
  • They would qualify for free or reduced-price school meals during the school year
  • They are not currently in SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), also called food stamps

Your family's income must be at or below 130% of the federal poverty line. The exact limits depend on your household size and where you live.

Some states have different rules. Check with your state's program to know for sure if your children qualify.

How much money do you get?

Most states give families between [VERIFY: dollar range for Summer EBT benefits] per child for the summer. The exact amount varies by state. Your state's education or USDA office can tell you the benefit amount.

How does Summer EBT work?

Summer EBT works like a debit card for buying food. Here's how it works:

  1. Your family applies through your school district or state agency
  2. If approved, you receive a card loaded with benefits
  3. You use the card at grocery stores and farmers markets to buy food
  4. The benefits are usually available from June through August

You can buy most foods at the store, including fruits, vegetables, meat, milk, bread and other groceries. You cannot use the card to buy prepared foods, hot foods, or non-food items.

How do you apply?

Most schools help families apply during the school year. You can also:

  • Contact your child's school
  • Call your state's education department
  • Visit your state's USDA office website

Applying is free. Only the state agency decides if you qualify.

What if you're also on SNAP?

If your family already gets SNAP benefits, your children may not qualify for Summer EBT. Ask your SNAP office or school about your situation. Some states have different rules.

Do you need to reapply each year?

Yes. Most families need to apply each summer or show that they still qualify. Check with your school in spring to find out when to apply.

When does Summer EBT start?

Summer EBT usually begins in June and runs through August. Some states start or end on different dates. Contact your school or state to find out the exact dates for your area.

Get help applying

If you need help:

  • Talk to your child's school
  • Contact your state's USDA Food and Nutrition Service office
  • Use our benefits screener to see what programs you may qualify for

Frequently asked questions

Does my child qualify if we get SNAP?

If your family already gets SNAP (food stamps), your children usually do not qualify for Summer EBT. Some states have different rules, so check with your state's program.

What foods can I buy with Summer EBT?

You can buy most foods like fruits, vegetables, meat, milk, bread, and groceries. You cannot use it for hot or prepared foods, or non-food items.

Do I have to apply every year?

Yes. Most families need to apply each summer. Schools usually take applications in the spring.

When does the money load on the card?

The money is usually loaded in June. Check with your school for the exact date in your state.

Can I use Summer EBT at farmers markets?

Yes. Many farmers markets accept Summer EBT cards. Check with your local market to confirm.

What if I miss the application deadline?

Contact your school or state agency right away. Some states may accept late applications or have other options for your family.

Programs in this article

School MealsState-run · USDA Food and Nutrition ServiceFree and reduced-price school meals help children eat well at school, and Summer EBT helps families buy food for children in the summer.

Official sources

  1. USDA Food and Nutrition Service: Summer EBT

Last reviewed Sep 21, 2026. Found an error? Tell us.

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Program rules & income limits

Researched from official agency sources and checked against our editorial policy.

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