Frequently asked questions

What is SUN Bucks / Summer EBT?

SUN Bucks, the official title of the USDA’s Summer EBT program, is a federally funded program to provide grocery benefits to kids during the summer months. Eligible families will receive $120 ($40/month) for each school aged child in their household (E.g., 1 child = $120; 3 children = $360). Funds can be used at grocery stores that accept SNAP benefits. The USDA has a tool for locating stores where benefits can be used. SUN Bucks can be used to purchase healthy groceries and everyday essentials like milk, bread, fruit, vegetables, and snacks.

Who is eligible?

SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) is generally for school aged children in households at or under 185% of federal poverty guidelines. Please use our eligibility tool to find out specific criteria for your state. All families, regardless of immigration status, are eligible for SUN Bucks. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to qualify for Summer EBT and you will NOT be asked about your immigration status. Applying for or receiving Summer EBT will not affect your immigration status or your ability to remain in the United States.

When will funds arrive?

Most benefits will arrive in June or July. In some states, benefits may not arrive until January of 2025. Please select your state see when funds are expected to arrive for your state.

When do funds expire?

Benefits must be used within 122 days of when the funds are issued.

How are funds issued?

Funds are issued onto existing EBT cards or a new EBT card will be mailed to the mailing address on file. Please select your state to see how funds will be issued in your state. Some people may want to check with their state benefits agency or school district to ensure they have your correct mailing address on file.

How do I enroll my household/child in the SUN Bucks program (Summer EBT)?

Most households will automatically be enrolled in the program. Please use our eligibility tool to determine if your child will be automatically enrolled or if you need to complete an application. This tool will direct you to your state’s application.

What if I live in a U.S. Territory?

American Samoa, Guam, Puerto Rico, The Northern Mariana Islands, and the U.S. Virgin Islands are participating in SUN Bucks (Summer EBT). Because the price of groceries is more expensive in these areas, eligible households in these territories will receive $59/month/child ($177 total/child).

I live in Oklahoma, can I participate in SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)?

Some Tribal nations in Oklahoma (Cherokee Nation, Chickasaw Nation) are participating in Summer EBT. Whether your child is part of a Tribal nation or is a student living on Tribal lands, your child may be eligible. Please click here to learn more. Benefits for Tribal nations will be WIC benefits rather than SNAP benefits.

Will Summer EBT benefits affect my existing benefits?

No. Summer EBT is an “above and beyond” benefit to your existing benefits and will not affect your SNAP, TANF, WIC, Medicaid or other benefit. Children are also still eligible for SUN Meals and SUN Meals To-Go in addition to SUN Bucks.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen to receive SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)?

No. All families, regardless of immigration status, are eligible for SUN Bucks. You do not need to be a U.S. citizen to qualify for Summer EBT and you will NOT be asked about your immigration status. Applying for or receiving Summer EBT will not affect your immigration status or your ability to remain in the United States.

What can I buy with SUN Bucks (Summer EBT)?

Summer EBT benefits (SUN Bucks) function the same as SNAP benefits. You can use SUN Bucks on dairy products, fresh produce, meat, poultry, fish, breads and cereals, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages. SUN Bucks cannot be used to purchase hot foods, pet foods, hygiene items, household supplies, or medicine. Funds can be used at grocery stores, convenience stores, farmers' markets, and other retailers that accept SNAP benefits. The USDA has a tool for locating participating stores. If you reside in Oklahoma and are receiving benefits through the Cherokee Nation or Chickasaw Nation, your benefits will be WIC benefits rather than SNAP benefits.

Who do I contact if I have questions?

Please review your state’s page for contact information for help in your state. This information will be below the eligibility tool.

What should I do if I expected my child to be enrolled automatically, but benefits have not arrived?

The first step is to check the expected arrival date listed on the state page. Since this is the first year of the program, benefits may arrive anywhere from June of 2024 through January of 2025. If the expected date has passed, we recommend contacting your state. Phone numbers and email addresses can be found on the state page.

Frequently asked questions

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