Summer break shouldn’t mean empty fridges. That’s where Sun Bucks—also called Summer EBT—steps in. This USDA program gives eligible families $120 per school-aged child ($40 for June, July, and August) to buy healthy food when free school meals aren’t available. It’s a simple EBT card loaded with grocery money, helping millions of kids stay nourished all summer long.
Think of it as a “summer food boost” on your regular EBT card (or a new one if you don’t have SNAP). No applications for most families—it’s automatic if your child gets free or reduced-price school lunch. Launched permanently in 2024 after pandemic pilots, Sun Bucks now reaches 21+ million children across 43 states, D.C., and territories.
Who Qualifies for Sun Bucks 2025?
Your child automatically qualifies if they:
- Received free or reduced-price school meals in the 2024-2025 year (via NSLP).
- Live in a household on SNAP, TANF, Medicaid (in most states), or certain other programs.
- Are in foster care, homeless, migrant, or runaway.
Income-based: Household ≤185% Federal Poverty Level (about $57,000 for family of 4). No citizenship proof needed—one payment per child (ages 5-18, school-enrolled).
If not auto-eligible, apply manually by state deadline (often August/September).
How Much and How It Works
- Amount: $120 total per child—one-time summer load.
- Card: Loads onto existing EBT/SNAP card or mailed new Sun Bucks card.
- Use Like SNAP: Buy fruits, veggies, dairy, meat, bread, cereal, seeds/plants—NO hot foods, alcohol, vitamins, or non-foods.
- Expiration: 122 days from issuance—use fast!
Benefits buy the same healthy foods as regular SNAP, helping stretch budgets when kids are home.
Sun Bucks Deposit Dates 2025 by State
Dates vary—most May-August 2025. Here’s a snapshot (always check your state portal for exacts):
| State | Deposit Timeline | Card Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| California (CA) | June-July (phased by last name) | Existing or new EBT | Apply by Sept 2 for late eligibility |
| North Carolina (NC) | May-November (rolling) | New Sun Bucks card | Auto for most; closed for new apps |
| Pennsylvania (PA) | Mid-August onward | Existing SNAP or new | Auto-load via school data |
| Alabama (AL) | May-June | New card | Participating; check AL DHR |
| Ohio (OH) | June-August | Existing SNAP EBT | Auto for eligible |
| New York (NY) | Reload old or new card | Existing or new Summer EBT | NY extensions possible |
| Texas (TX) | Not participating 2025 | N/A | Check alternatives like P-EBT |
| Florida (FL) | Not participating | N/A | Local summer meal sites |
Non-participating 2025: AK, FL, GA, ID, IN, IA, MS, OK, SC, SD, TN, TX, WY. Tribal lands often $40/month higher.
How to Apply or Check Status
Most auto-enroll via school lunch data—no action needed! If not:
- Visit summerebt.org/your-state or state portal (e.g., cdss.ca.gov for CA).
- Submit child info + proof if required (school letter, income docs).
- Receive card by mail; activate and shop.
Check balance via ebtEDGE app or state hotline.
Why Sun Bucks Matters
Summer hunger affects 1 in 5 kids—Sun Bucks cuts that by providing reliable grocery funds when school meals end. Families report using it for fresh produce, dairy, and proteins—healthier summers, less stress.
FAQs
What are Sun Bucks? USDA’s Summer EBT—$120/child for groceries.
When will Sun Bucks be available in NC? May-November 2025, phased.
Sun Bucks California 2025? June-July, phased by last name.
Summer EBT NY/OH? Auto-load on EBT; June-August.
Sun Bucks EBT deposit dates? Vary by state—check summerebt.org.
Conclusion
Sun Bucks 2025 ensures no child goes hungry over summer—$120 per eligible kid for essentials, auto-loaded for most. Verify at summerebt.org or your state site—your family’s nutrition boost is ready.
About the Author: Certified child nutrition specialist with 12 years at USDA nonprofits, providing FNS-sourced guidance for family aid.
