Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) Program 2025: Your Guide to Benefit Levels and Automatic Eligibility
The Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) Program 2025 is a federal initiative designed to support families with school-aged children by providing grocery-buying benefits during the summer months when school meals are unavailable. Offering $120 per eligible child to purchase nutritious foods, this program ensures kids have access to healthy meals when school is out. Most children are automatically enrolled if they participate in programs like SNAP, TANF, or free/reduced-price school meals, but some may need to apply based on income eligibility. This guide dives into benefit levels, automatic eligibility criteria, application processes, and more, tailored for families seeking clarity on this vital program.
In this comprehensive article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the 2025 SUN Bucks Program, including who qualifies, how benefits are distributed, and which states participate. With detailed lists and tables, we’ll ensure high readability and provide actionable insights to help you navigate this program. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or caregiver, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to maximize these benefits for your children.
What Is the Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) Program?
The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (SUN Bucks) program, authorized by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023, is a USDA initiative aimed at reducing child hunger during summer breaks. Unlike school-year meal programs, SUN Bucks provides families with funds to buy groceries, ensuring children maintain access to nutritious food when school cafeterias are closed. In 2025, the program delivers a one-time $120 benefit per eligible child, typically issued on an EBT card or a dedicated SUN Bucks card.
This program is a game-changer for low-income families, complementing other benefits like SNAP and WIC. For example, my neighbor, a single mom of two, relied on SUN Bucks last summer to keep her kids’ diets balanced with fresh fruits and veggies. It’s not just about filling bellies—it’s about giving kids the nutrition they need to thrive during summer.
Benefit Levels for SUN Bucks 2025
The SUN Bucks Program 2025 provides a standardized benefit level across participating states, tribes, and territories. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
Benefit Amount and Distribution
- Total Benefit: $120 per eligible child for the summer period (June, July, August).
- Monthly Breakdown: Equivalent to $40 per month for three months, though issued as a single payment in most cases.
- Delivery Method:
- Added to existing SNAP/TANF EBT cards for households already enrolled in these programs.
- Issued on a separate SUN Bucks EBT card for non-SNAP households.
- Mailed to the address on file with the child’s school or state agency.
- Expiration: Benefits expire 122 days after issuance, so use them promptly
What Can You Buy with SUN Bucks?
SUN Bucks follows the same purchasing rules as SNAP benefits. Here’s a quick list of eligible and ineligible items:
Eligible Purchases
- Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt)
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants for growing food at home
Ineligible Purchases
- Non-food items (paper towels, diapers, toiletries)
- Alcohol and tobacco products
- Hot prepared foods
- Pet food or household supplies
This structure ensures families can prioritize nutritious groceries. For more details on SNAP-eligible items, check out our guide on SNAP income limits.
Automatic Eligibility for SUN Bucks 2025
One of the standout features of the SUN Bucks Program is its streamlined eligibility process. Many children are automatically enrolled, reducing the burden on families. Below, we outline the criteria for automatic eligibility in a clear, concise table.
Automatic Eligibility Criteria
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Participation | Children in households receiving SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR benefits between July 1, 2024, and August 31, 2025. |
| School-Based Eligibility | Children attending a National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) school and approved for free or reduced-price meals during the 2024-2025 school year. |
| Special Circumstances | Children in foster care, Head Start, experiencing homelessness, or part of a migrant family. |
| Medicaid Recipients | In some states, children whose households receive Medicaid with income qualifying for NSLP/SBP are automatically enrolled. |
Key Notes on Automatic Enrollment
- No Application Needed: If your child meets the above criteria, benefits are issued without additional action.
- Notification: States notify eligible families via mail or text, typically starting in June 2025.
- Address Updates: Ensure your address is current with your child’s school or state agency (SNAP/TANF) to receive benefits.
For families unsure about eligibility, tools like the Propel Eligibility Checker can confirm if your child qualifies automatically or needs to apply.
Who Needs to Apply for SUN Bucks 2025?
While many children are automatically enrolled, some families must submit an application to receive SUN Bucks benefits. Here’s a list of scenarios where an application is required:
Application Requirements
- Income-Based Eligibility: Households not receiving SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR but meeting NSLP income guidelines must apply.
- Non-NSLP Schools: Children in schools not participating in NSLP/SBP (e.g., some private or virtual schools) may need to apply if they meet income criteria.
- CEP/Provision 2 Schools: In schools where all students receive free meals (Community Eligibility Provision), families may need to submit a Child Nutrition Eligibility and Education Benefit (CNEEB) application or a SUN Bucks application.
- New Enrollments: Families enrolling children in NSLP schools for the 2025-2026 school year must ensure addresses are updated in systems like CALPADS (in California).
Income Eligibility Guidelines (July 1, 2025 – June 30, 2026)
| Household Size | Annual Income (Free Meals) | Annual Income (Reduced-Price Meals) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $18,770 | $26,973 |
| 2 | $25,140 | $36,482 |
| 3 | $31,510 | $45,991 |
| 4 | $37,880 | $55,500 |
| 5 | $44,250 | $65,009 |
| Each additional member | +$6,370 | +$9,509 |
Note: Income guidelines are updated annually on July 1. Check with your state’s SUN Bucks program for the latest figures.
How to Apply for SUN Bucks 2025
If your child isn’t automatically eligible, applying for SUN Bucks is straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Application Process
- Check Eligibility: Use an eligibility checker or contact your state’s SUN Bucks helpline (e.g., California: 877-328-9677).
- Gather Documentation: Prepare proof of income, household size, and school enrollment (if applicable).
- Submit Application:
- Online: Most states offer online applications through portals like Virginia SUN Bucks.
- Paper Application: Mail a completed form to your state’s designated address (e.g., Washington: DSHS Customer Service Center, P.O. Box).
- Await Notification: States typically notify applicants by mid-August 2025. Benefits are issued by October 2025.
- Activate Card: Follow instructions included with your SUN Bucks card to activate it using the 19-digit card number and the last four digits of your zip code.
Tips for a Smooth Application
- Apply early (applications open through August 2025 in most states).
- Double-check your address to avoid delays in card delivery.
- Contact your state’s SUN Bucks helpline if you don’t receive confirmation by mid-August.
Participating States and Tribes in 2025
Not all states participate in the SUN Bucks Program. Below is a list of non-participating states and participating tribal nations:
Non-Participating States
- Alaska
- Florida
- Georgia
- Idaho
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Mississippi
- Oklahoma
- South Carolina
- South Dakota
- Tennessee
- Texas
- Wyoming
Participating Tribal Nations (Oklahoma)
- Cherokee Nation
- Chickasaw Nation
- Choctaw Nation
- Muscogee (Creek) Nation
- Otoe-Missouria Tribe
Note: Tribal nations issue benefits to all eligible children on their land, regardless of tribal membership. Contact tribal offices for details.
How to Use Your SUN Bucks Benefits
Using SUN Bucks benefits is simple, but there are key considerations to ensure you maximize their value. Here’s a detailed guide:
Where to Use SUN Bucks
- Authorized Retailers: Grocery stores, farmers markets, and other SNAP-accepting locations nationwide.
- Farmers Markets: Many states, like Washington, offer additional benefits for fruits and vegetables at participating markets.
- Online Purchases: Some retailers allow EBT purchases online, but check with your state for specifics.
Tips for Using Benefits
- Check Balance: Use your state’s EBT app or call the helpline to monitor your balance.
- Prioritize Nutrition: Focus on healthy foods like fresh produce and lean proteins to stretch benefits further.
- Save Your Card: Keep your SUN Bucks card for future years, as benefits may be reloaded.
If you’re curious about other financial relief programs, explore our guide on Colorado TABOR refunds for additional support options.
Common Questions About SUN Bucks 2025
Here’s a list of frequently asked questions to address common concerns:
FAQs
- Does SUN Bucks affect immigration status? No, participating in SUN Bucks does not impact immigration status or citizenship applications.
- Can I opt out? Yes, contact your state’s customer service center or destroy the card if you don’t want benefits.
- What if my card is lost? Request a replacement by calling your state’s EBT call center (e.g., North Carolina: 1-866-719-0141).
- Can benefits be used by anyone in the household? Yes, any household member can use the card, even if it’s issued in the child’s or parent’s name.
- What if I receive benefits in error? Destroy the card and contact your state’s helpline to report the issue.
State-Specific SUN Bucks Details
Each state has unique processes for SUN Bucks 2025. Below is a table summarizing key details for select states:
| State | Helpline | Application Deadline | Benefit Issuance | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| California | 877-328-9677 | August 2025 | June–August | Benefits issued as $40/month for three months. |
| Washington | 833-543-3230 | August 2025 | June–August | Text alerts available for updates. |
| Maryland | 1-800-332-6347 | August 31, 2025 | Last week of June–August | Benefits issued monthly. |
| Pennsylvania | 1-877-395-8930 | October 2025 | Mid-August | Benefits may be issued on SNAP cards. |
| Arizona | N/A | August 5, 2025 | Summer 2025 | Check school address for card delivery. |
Maximizing SUN Bucks for Your Family
To make the most of SUN Bucks benefits, consider these strategies:
Budgeting Tips
- Plan Meals: Create a weekly meal plan focusing on affordable, nutrient-dense foods.
- Shop Sales: Use benefits during grocery store promotions to stretch your dollars.
- Buy in Bulk: Purchase non-perishable items like rice or canned goods in bulk for cost savings.
Community Resources
- Summer Meal Sites: Combine SUN Bucks with free SUN Meals at local sites for additional support.
- Farmers Markets: Look for markets offering matching programs to double your produce purchases.
Last summer, I saw a family in my community use SUN Bucks to stock up on fresh berries at a local market, turning a small budget into a feast of healthy snacks. It’s these small wins that make programs like this so impactful.
Why SUN Bucks Matters
The Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) Program addresses a critical gap in child nutrition during summer months. With nearly 600,000 children benefiting in Washington alone in 2024, the program’s reach is significant. By providing $120 per child, it empowers families to maintain healthy diets without financial strain. This initiative not only supports physical health but also reduces stress for parents like my friend, who juggles work and childcare during summer breaks.
