If you have a school-age child, this is something you definitely want to know. The U.S. government has rolled out the Summer EBT program, offering financial help to families with children at home during the summer months. For many households, especially those already struggling, this will be a welcome relief to help cover extra food expenses.
Let’s break down what this benefit is all about, how it works, and how to get it.
Summer EBT
The Summer EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) is a federal initiative designed to give families a little extra help when school’s out. Why? Because during the school year, millions of kids eat free or reduced-price meals at school. But when summer hits, those meals stop—and families are left to fill the gap.
To help ease that burden, the government is offering $120 per eligible child through the summer period, covering meals for June, July, and August.
Eligibility
To qualify for the Summer EBT benefit, your child must be between 6 and 18 years old and meet at least one of these conditions:
- Enrolled in SNAP (food stamps)
- Part of TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- Covered by Medicaid
- Receives free or reduced-price school lunches
If your child is part of any of those programs, you’re most likely already in the system and don’t need to apply manually.
Application
Already receiving SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or school meal benefits? Great news—you likely don’t need to do anything. The benefit will be applied automatically.
However, if your child isn’t part of one of those programs, you’ll need to apply. Applications are open from July 1 to September 4, so make sure to submit during that window to avoid missing out.
Check your state’s website for specific application steps, since rules and systems can vary by state.
Payments
Each child will receive $120, broken into three $40 payments to cover June, July, and August. The payments will be issued between August and September—even though the months they’re covering have already passed.
The funds will be loaded onto your regular EBT card if you already receive food benefits. If you’re new to the program, a special Summer EBT card will be mailed to you. It works just like a debit card, but only for food purchases.
Usage
So where can you spend this money?
You can use your EBT or Summer EBT card at:
- Grocery stores
- Supermarkets
- Authorized retail chains
- Farmers’ markets
But you can’t use it at fast food restaurants or to buy non-food items. Approved items include:
- Fruits & vegetables
- Meat & poultry
- Dairy products
- Bread & cereal
- Non-alcoholic beverages
This benefit is strictly for nutritious groceries, not eating out.
Expiration
Yes, the benefit comes with an expiration date. Once the money is loaded onto your card, you’ll have 122 days (roughly 4 months) to use it. If you don’t spend it within that time, you lose it.
So keep track of when you get the deposit and use the money before it vanishes.
Tracking
Want to know if you’re getting the benefit or need to check your balance? You’ve got three easy ways to do that:
- ebtEDGE App – Download it to track deposits and your purchase history.
- Phone Call – Dial 1-833-452-0096 to check balance, report card issues, or get help.
- State Websites – Each state has its own portal for checking eligibility and payment status.
Summer EBT is a powerful tool to support families during a time when extra costs can sneak up fast. Even if you’ve never applied for benefits before, this is one worth checking out.
FAQs
Who qualifies for Summer EBT?
Kids aged 6–18 in SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or free lunch programs.
How much is the Summer EBT benefit?
Each child receives $120, paid in three $40 installments.
When will I get the Summer EBT payment?
Payments begin between August and September 2025.
Do I need to apply for Summer EBT?
Only if your child isn’t in SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or free lunch.
Where can I use the Summer EBT card?
At grocery stores, markets, and approved food retailers only.
