Summer EBT 2026: What You Need to Know

What is Summer EBT?

Summer EBT (also called SUN Bucks) is a government program that gives $120 in food benefits per child during the summer months.

The program helps families feed their children when school is out and kids no longer have access to free or reduced-price school meals. This program started in 2024 and is now in its third year.

Which States Are Participating?

Participating States:
Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Hawaii, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Washington D.C.

Participating U.S. Territories:
American Samoa, Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Guam, Puerto Rico, and U.S. Virgin Islands

Participating Tribal Nations:
Cherokee Nation, Chickasaw Nation, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Muscogee (Creek) Nation, and Otoe-Missouria Tribe

Note: Oklahoma state is not participating, but the five tribal nations listed above run their own Summer EBT programs. You don't need to be a tribal member to qualify—you just need to live on or attend school within their tribal lands.

States NOT Participating:
Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah will not offer Summer EBT in 2026.

Who Can Get Summer EBT?

Your child may automatically qualify if your household receives:

• SNAP (food stamps)
• FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations)
• Medicaid (in about 39 states)

Children who are automatically eligible include those who:

• Are school-aged and receive SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or Medicaid benefits
• Attend a school with the National School Lunch or Breakfast Program and are approved for free or reduced-price meals
• Are in foster care, Head Start, experiencing homelessness, or part of a migrant family

Not automatically eligible? You can still apply if your household income is below 185% of the federal poverty level. For example, a family of three must earn less than $50,542 per year.

What about homeschooled or online school students?
They may still qualify if their family receives SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or Medicaid in some states.

How Much Money Will I Get?

Families receive $120 per eligible child for the summer. Here's a quick breakdown:

Higher amounts for some areas: Hawaii families receive $189 per child, and most U.S. territories receive $180 per child due to higher living costs.

How Will I Receive the Benefits?

Depending on your state, Summer EBT will be loaded onto:

• Your existing SNAP EBT card, OR
• A new Summer EBT card mailed to you

Important: If you've moved since last summer, update your address with your child's school and your SNAP office so your card and benefits reach you.

When Will I Get My Benefits?

Benefits are typically available in late May or early June 2026, though timing varies by state. Here are some examples:

Check your state's Summer EBT website for exact dates.

What Can I Buy With Summer EBT?

You can use Summer EBT to buy most groceries, including:

• Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables
• Meat, poultry, and fish
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
• Bread and cereals
• Snack foods (chips, popcorn, crackers)
• Canned or dried beans
• Peanut butter, jam, and jelly
• Non-alcoholic drinks (juice, water, energy drinks)

You CANNOT buy:

• Hot prepared foods
• Alcohol or tobacco
• Vitamins and supplements
• Pet food
• Non-food items (paper towels, toilet paper, diapers, wipes)

Note: Some states have restrictions on sugary drinks and candy. Check your state's rules before shopping.

When Do Benefits Expire?

Summer EBT benefits expire 122 days after they are loaded onto your card. If your Summer EBT is on the same card as your regular SNAP benefits, the Summer EBT funds will be used first when you shop.

Frequently Asked Questions

Whose name will be on the card?
It varies by state. The card may be issued to the head of household or the eligible child. Anyone in the household can use the card.

Will Summer EBT affect my food stamps?
No. Summer EBT is extra help and does not reduce any other benefits you receive.

Do I need to be a U.S. citizen?
No. Your children can receive Summer EBT regardless of your citizenship status. Receiving these benefits will NOT affect your immigration status.

How can I check my balance?
You can check your balance using the Propel App or by calling the number on the back of your card.

Summary

Summer EBT helps families put food on the table when school meals aren't available. If you think you qualify, check if your state is participating and whether you need to apply. Don't miss the deadline to ensure your children receive this helpful benefit!

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