The $120 Summer EBT Boost 2025 is a federal food assistance program designed to help low-income families buy groceries for their children during the summer break. Eligible children will receive a one-time payment of $120 on an EBT card, which can be used at grocery stores and farmers’ markets that accept EBT payments.
This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply, and when to expect payments.
Overview of the $120 Summer EBT Boost 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) 2025 |
| Benefit Amount | $120 per eligible child |
| Eligibility | Children receiving free/reduced-price school meals, SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR benefits |
| Application Process | Automatic for most families; others must apply manually |
| Payment Dates | Varies by state, expected in June-July 2025 |
| Where to Use | Grocery stores and farmers’ markets that accept EBT |
| Official Website | USDA Summer EBT Program |
The Summer EBT program provides essential financial relief to help ensure children receive proper nutrition while school meal programs are unavailable.
What Is the $120 Summer EBT Boost?
The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program, also called SUN Bucks, is a federally funded initiative that helps low-income families afford food during summer break.
- Provides a one-time $120 benefit per eligible child
- Administered by state agencies with varying application processes
- Proven to reduce childhood hunger by 30% in participating states
Who Qualifies for the $120 Summer EBT Boost?
Automatic Eligibility
Your child will automatically receive benefits if they are already enrolled in:
- The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP)
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
Most families in these programs do not need to apply—benefits will be automatically loaded onto their EBT cards.
Who Needs to Apply for the Summer EBT Boost?
Some families must submit an application if:
- Their child attends a school where all meals are free, but they have not officially applied for NSLP/SBP
- They meet income eligibility requirements (below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)) but do not receive SNAP or TANF
- They live in a state requiring additional verification
How to Apply for Summer EBT 2025
Step 1: Check Your State’s Participation
- Not all states participate in Summer EBT.
- Visit the USDA Summer EBT website to confirm if your state is included.
Step 2: Determine Your Child’s Eligibility
- If your child is already receiving SNAP, TANF, or free school meals, you likely do not need to apply.
- If not, check your income level and school meal status.
Step 3: Submit an Application (If Required)
- Visit your state’s Department of Social Services website.
- Fill out the Summer EBT application online.
- Provide proof of income and school enrollment if necessary.
- Submit before your state’s application deadline.
Payment Distribution & Important Dates
The $120 benefit per child will be loaded onto an EBT card that can be used at approved grocery stores and farmers’ markets.
Estimated Payment Timeline
| State | Payment Start Date |
|---|---|
| Texas | June 2025 |
| Florida | July 2025 |
| New York | June 2025 |
| California | July 2025 |
For exact payment dates, check with your state’s SNAP office or visit the USDA Summer EBT website.
Where Can You Use the Summer EBT Card?
The EBT card works like a debit card and can be used to buy:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Dairy products
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Bread and cereal
Items You CANNOT Buy with Summer EBT
- Alcohol or tobacco
- Hot/prepared foods
- Pet food
- Non-food items
The $120 Summer EBT Boost 2025 provides essential food assistance for low-income families with school-aged children. While some families will be automatically enrolled, others may need to apply depending on state-specific rules.
- Check your eligibility to see if you qualify
- Confirm your state’s participation in the program
- Apply if required before your state’s deadline
- Use benefits wisely to ensure your child has nutritious meals
For the latest updates, visit the USDA Summer EBT Program website.
FAQ:
Who is eligible for the $120 Summer EBT Boost?
Children who receive free/reduced-price school meals, SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR benefits are eligible. Some families may need to apply separately based on state rules.
When will Summer EBT payments be issued?
Payments will be issued between June and July 2025, but dates vary by state.
