The $120 Summer EBT Boost—also known as SUN Bucks—is a federal assistance program aimed at helping low-income families buy food for their children during summer break. This initiative provides a one-time payment of $120 per eligible child to be used at grocery stores and farmers’ markets that accept EBT payments.
Administered by the USDA, the program is implemented at the state level, meaning that eligibility, application requirements, and payment dates may vary depending on where you live.
With millions of children relying on school meal programs, this benefit ensures that those who qualify continue to receive nutritious food when school is out.
Key Details of the $120 Summer EBT Boost 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) 2025 |
| Benefit Amount | $120 per eligible child |
| Eligibility | Children receiving free/reduced-price school meals or SNAP/TANF benefits |
| Application Process | Automatic for most; manual application for some families |
| Payment Dates | Varies by state; expected summer 2025 |
| Where to Use Funds | Grocery stores, farmers’ markets that accept EBT |
| Official Resource | USDA Summer EBT Program Page |
Most families will receive the $120 benefit automatically, but some may need to apply manually, depending on their state’s rules.
Who Qualifies for the Summer EBT Boost?
Automatic Eligibility
Your child will automatically qualify for the $120 Summer EBT Boost if they already receive benefits through:
- The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
If your child is enrolled in any of these programs, you do not need to apply—benefits will be issued automatically.
Who Needs to Apply for Summer EBT?
You may need to submit an application if:
- Your child attends a school that provides free meals to all students, but you haven’t officially applied for NSLP/SBP.
- Your household income is below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL), but you do not currently receive SNAP or TANF benefits.
- Your state requires additional verification before issuing Summer EBT benefits.
To confirm whether you need to apply, check your state’s Summer EBT program page on the USDA website.
How to Apply for Summer EBT 2025?
If you are not automatically enrolled, follow these steps to apply:
-
Check Your State’s Participation
- Not all states participate in Summer EBT. Verify your state’s involvement by visiting the USDA Summer EBT page.
-
Determine Your Child’s Eligibility
- If your child already receives NSLP, SNAP, or TANF benefits, you likely do not need to apply.
- If they do not, check your household income level and school meal status.
-
Submit an Application (If Required)
- Visit your state’s Department of Social Services website.
- Fill out the Summer EBT application form.
- Provide proof of income and school enrollment, if necessary.
- Submit your application before your state’s deadline.
Summer EBT Payment Dates – When Will You Receive Funds?
The $120 per child benefit will be loaded onto an EBT card and can be used at approved grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
Estimated Payment Timeline by State
| State | Payment Start Date |
|---|---|
| Texas | June 2025 |
| Florida | July 2025 |
| New York | June 2025 |
| California | July 2025 |
Each state determines its own distribution schedule, so families should check their state’s official EBT program website for exact payment dates.
Where Can You Use the Summer EBT Benefit?
Families can use the $120 Summer EBT Boost at:
- Grocery stores that accept EBT payments.
- Farmers’ markets that allow EBT transactions.
- Retailers authorized by the USDA to process SNAP/EBT purchases.
What Families Should Do Next
If your child is already enrolled in an eligible program, you do not need to take any action—payments will be issued automatically. However, if you believe you qualify but are not automatically enrolled, follow these steps:
- Verify Your Eligibility – Check if your child qualifies under NSLP, SNAP, or TANF.
- Check Your State’s Requirements – Some states require additional applications for Summer EBT.
- Submit an Application (If Needed) – Apply through your state’s Department of Social Services before the deadline.
- Monitor Payment Dates – Check your state’s EBT distribution schedule to know when funds will be available.
The Bottom Line
The $120 Summer EBT Boost 2025 is a lifeline for low-income families who rely on school meal programs. With millions of children facing food insecurity during summer break, this benefit helps ensure access to nutritious food when school is out.
For most families, enrollment is automatic, but those who do not receive SNAP or TANF benefits may need to apply manually.
To confirm eligibility and payment dates, visit your state’s USDA Summer EBT page and prepare early to secure your benefits.
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Aanchal is a passionate writer with a keen interest in storytelling, content creation, and creative expression. She enjoys exploring diverse topics and crafting engaging narratives that captivate readers.
