If you are a parent counting every dollar during the summer months, this could be welcome news. The Summer EBT program, also known as SUN Bucks, is offering $120 per child in grocery assistance this summer. This extra help is specifically designed for low-income families with school-aged children who lose access to free or reduced-price school meals when school is out.
This program was made a permanent part of U.S. food assistance by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. That means families can now count on this boost every summer going forward—if their state participates.
How does the SUN Bucks program work?
So, here is how it works: if your child qualifies for free or reduced-price lunches during the school year, they may automatically qualify for the Summer EBT benefits. Each eligible child will receive a total of $120—that is $40 for each of the three summer months—loaded onto an EBT card.
You can use these funds just like SNAP benefits, which means you can spend them at participating grocery stores or retailers to buy food.
Some states may issue the benefit through a separate card called SUN Bucks, while others might load it directly onto your existing SNAP or P-EBT card, depending on the system they use.
Which states are participating in the summer EBT program in 2025?
Now, you are probably asking, “Will my state be sending out SUN Bucks this summer?” That is the million-dollar question.
As of now, over 30 states, including Washington D.C., have opted in to participate in the 2025 Summer EBT program. Some of the states that are confirmed to be participating include:
- California
- Texas
- New York
- Florida
- Illinois
- Pennsylvania
- Georgia
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Michigan
- New Jersey
- Washington
- Virginia
This is not the full list—more states are joining in, and some are still finalizing their plans. So, it is best to check with your local Department of Human Services (DHS) or state SNAP office to confirm if SUN Bucks are coming to your area.
Unfortunately, some states have opted out of the program for 2025. If you live in a state that is not participating, you may need to look into local food banks or other community summer meal programs for assistance.
Who is eligible for SUN bucks?
Eligibility for the SUN Bucks program is mostly tied to your child’s school meal status. If your kids are already approved for free or reduced-price lunches under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), you may not need to do anything—your benefits could be issued automatically.
Other eligible groups may include:
- Children in households already receiving SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid
- Children in Head Start programs or receiving foster care
- Some children who are enrolled in schools that provide universal free meals
If your child does not fall into any of these categories, you may still be able to apply manually through your state’s Summer EBT portal or benefits office.
When will you get the extra $120?
You are probably wondering when you will actually see that money. Distribution dates vary by state, but most families can expect to receive their Summer EBT or SUN Bucks between June and August 2025. Some states will send all $120 at once, while others might break it up into monthly payments of $40.
To avoid missing your payment, keep an eye on any mail or notices from your local benefits office, and make sure your contact information is up to date with your child’s school or your local SNAP office.
If you are eligible and live in a participating state, this extra help could go a long way in covering those extra groceries while your kids are home this summer.
