When summer hits, millions of American children lose access to the free and reduced-price school meals they rely on during the academic year. That’s where the $120 Summer EBT benefit for 2025, also known as SUN Bucks, comes in. This federal program, rolled out by the USDA, aims to help low-income families keep their kids fed and healthy while school is out. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or community advocate, understanding how it works, who qualifies, and how to claim it can make a big difference.
What Is the $120 Summer EBT Benefit?
The Summer EBT benefit, officially called SUN Bucks, provides $120 per eligible child to help families buy groceries during the summer months when school meal programs are paused. The funds are loaded onto an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card and can be used at most grocery stores and authorized retailers.
Why It Matters
- Replaces lost school meals during summer break
- Reduces food insecurity by up to 33% (USDA research)
- Provides flexibility for families to buy the food they know their kids will eat
Who Is Eligible for Summer EBT in 2025?
Eligibility for the $120 Summer EBT benefit generally includes children from low-income households, especially those already participating in school or federal assistance programs.
You May Qualify If:
- Your child is eligible for free or reduced-price meals under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP)
- Your family already receives SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid (in some states)
- Your child attends a school that offers free meals to all students under the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)
- Your child is homeless, in foster care, or a migrant student
Note: Eligibility rules may vary slightly by state. Check your local Department of Human Services or school nutrition program for specific guidelines.
How to Claim the $120 SUN Bucks Benefit
1. Automatic Enrollment (Most Families)
If your child is already enrolled in free/reduced lunch or receives SNAP or Medicaid, you likely won’t need to do anything. The $120 will be loaded automatically:
- To your existing EBT card, or
- Sent on a new card by mail if you don’t already have one
2. Manual Application (Some Families)
If your child is eligible for free/reduced lunch but you don’t receive other benefits, you may need to apply manually.
Application Steps:
- Visit your state’s Department of Human Services or Summer EBT website
- Complete the application online or by paper
- Submit proof of eligibility (e.g., school meal enrollment, income, residency)
- Wait for approval and delivery of your benefit card
When Will the Summer EBT Benefits Be Issued?
Timing varies by state, but most benefits will be issued in June or July 2025.
| State Distribution Options | Details |
|---|---|
| Lump Sum | Entire $120 issued at once |
| Installments | Smaller amounts issued monthly (e.g., $40) |
| Delivery Method | EBT card mailed or funds added to existing |
If you haven’t received your benefits by mid-July, contact your state EBT customer service or your local Department of Human Services.
Where Can You Use Your Summer EBT Card?
SUN Bucks can be used just like a SNAP EBT card. Eligible locations include:
- Grocery stores (Walmart, Kroger, Aldi, etc.)
- Supermarkets
- Farmers’ markets (many offer bonus programs for EBT users)
- Online retailers that accept EBT (e.g., Amazon in select states)
Not Allowed:
- Hot/prepared food (restaurant meals)
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Non-food items (cleaning supplies, paper goods, pet food)
State Participation in Summer EBT
Summer EBT is federally funded, but administered by states, so participation and implementation can vary.
How to Check Your State’s Status:
- Visit the USDA SUN Bucks portal: fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks
- Contact your local school district or school nutrition office
- Check with your state’s Department of Human Services
Some states may opt out or delay implementation. If your state doesn’t offer SUN Bucks, ask about alternative summer meal programs in your area.
What to Do If You Have Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Didn’t receive benefits | Confirm eligibility; contact your local EBT or DHS office |
| Lost EBT card | Call EBT customer service to request a replacement |
| Card not working | Confirm the store accepts EBT; call EBT helpline if needed |
| Wrong benefit amount | Review eligibility and contact your case manager or DHS |
Tips to Make the Most of Your $120 Benefit
- Meal plan ahead: Plan simple meals and snacks to avoid last-minute expensive purchases
- Use coupons and rewards: Combine EBT with store promotions to stretch your budget
- Buy in bulk: Stock up on staples like pasta, rice, beans, and frozen veggies
- Shop at farmers’ markets: Many offer Double Bucks programs, doubling your EBT value for produce
Summary Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Benefit Amount | $120 per eligible child |
| Delivery Method | EBT card (existing or mailed) |
| Application Requirement | Mostly automatic; some may need to apply |
| Availability | Summer 2025 (state-dependent rollout) |
| Where It Can Be Used | Grocery stores, farmers’ markets, authorized retailers |
| Eligibility | Based on school meal status, income, or federal aid |
| Official Info | fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks |
FAQs
Do I need to apply for SUN Bucks?
Most families will receive benefits automatically, but some may need to apply depending on their state.
Can I use the benefits online?
Yes, in many states, EBT can be used on platforms like Amazon and Walmart.
Is this a one-time benefit?
Yes, SUN Bucks are typically distributed once each summer per eligible child.
