What Is Summer EBT? Practical Benefits You Need To Know

What is Summer EBT? It refers to a federal initiative that offers nutritional benefits to families with school-aged children during the summer vacation.

In fact, many children are deprived of access to free or reduced-price meals when schools close. Summer EBT helps fill that gap by giving families extra funds to buy groceries, ensuring children stay healthy and nourished all summer.

1. What is Summer EBT?

The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program, or Summer EBT, is a new government nutrition initiative. It offers grocery benefits to households with children eligible for free or low-cost school meals during the summer.

The Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023 authorized the implementation of this program, which began as a permanent, nationwide initiative in 2024.

Benefits for summer EBT are $120 per child per summer; however, they are higher in Alaska, Hawaii, and the U.S. territories. After 2024, the benefit level will be modified annually to account for inflation.

Benefits are transferred onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, and users can use them at any location that accepts SNAP/EBT benefits.

>>> Read more: What can you buy with EBT?

In fact, the Summer EBT is a continuation of the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer for Children (SEBTC) demonstration pilots, which commenced in 2011, and the Pandemic EBT, which gave benefits to eligible kids to replace school meals when schools were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Important notes

• Qualified students will get a new Summer EBT card every year. However, the time limit for summer EBT benefits is very short.
• Individuals and families who receive Summer EBT funds have 122 days, approximately four months, to utilize their benefits. If they don’t use them within 122 days, the money will be returned to the federal government and will not be refunded.
• Notably, this 122-day period starts on the day that benefits were put onto the Summer EBT card, NOT the day the card is received in the mail.

2. 2025 Participating Tribal Nations/States/Territories

Now you know what is Summer EBT. Below is a list of states, territories, and tribes participating in the Summer EBT 2025.

Nevertheless, the list is subject to modification as agencies conclude their plans to participate in the program in 2025. Additionally, an agency must possess an approved plan to execute the program.

3. Who is Eligible for Summer EBT? 

What is Summer EBT, and who qualifies? Most kids who are qualified for Summer EBT benefits will get them automatically if they meet the following requirements:

• A child must be between the ages of 6 and 16 and receive SNAP, Temporary Assistance (cash) benefits, or Medicaid during the time they are eligible, OR
• No matter what age, a child can only get free or low-cost school meals through the National School Lunch Program if their school certifies them.

Those who are not immediately eligible may also get Summer EBT benefits by filling out an application if:

• They attend a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), AND
• The family’s income must be at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level for free or reduced-price school meals.

4. When Will Summer EBT Benefits Be Available?

Wonder “when does Summer EBT start?” It will usually begin in late May or early June 2025, but it may vary in your state.

Families eligible for Summer EBT 2025 started receiving letters on June 2, 2025. These letters will continue to be sent out all summer and fall and may take a few weeks to get to you.

When you receive a qualifying letter, you will get a benefit. Otherwise, call the Summer EBT Helpline at 1-833-452-0096 by October 31, 2025.

5. How to Get Summer EBT Benefits?

Now you know what is Summer EBT. As mentioned, most families don’t have to apply for Summer EBT benefits since their child has been accepted and will get them immediately.

Even if a student isn’t automatically qualified, they may be able to get benefits by applying directly to the agency in their state, tribe, or territory.

If you can’t apply online, you can use this paper application instead. Simply download this form, print it out, fill it out, and return it to the address at the application’s top.

Please note that if your state requires further verification for Summer EBT benefits, you may need proof of your household income when applying.

Additionally, families only need to fill out one application for each child living in the household. Besides, a student’s parent or guardian should fill out the application form.

Conclusion

To conclude, Summer EBT is vital in supporting families when school is out. It ensures children have access to healthy meals during the summer months, reducing food insecurity across communities. By understanding “What is Summer EBT?” and how it works, families can make the most of this valuable program and keep their kids well-fed, active, and ready for the next school year.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Summer EBT deposit dates?

The deposit date will depend on where you live, but most states send payments in late May or early June.

How to check Summer EBT balance?

You can check your Summer EBT benefits balance by calling the EBT Helpline at 1-888-328-6399.

Which states aren’t participating in Summer EBT 2025?

Residents in Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Wyoming will not be able to get Summer EBT in 2025. These states can decide to join in the future, but for now, individuals shouldn’t expect Summer EBT benefits for 2025.