Many families in the United States rely on SNAP benefits to help buy food every month. In 2025, some states are offering extra money for children. This extra help comes at a time when food prices are high and families need more support. Let’s break down what this means for you.
What Are SNAP Benefits?
SNAP stands for Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as food stamps. This government program helps low-income families buy groceries. Each month, families get money added to an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) card, which works like a debit card for buying food.
SNAP helps millions of people in the U.S. get the food they need, especially families with children, seniors, and people with disabilities.
What Is the $120 Boost for 2025?
In 2025, certain states are giving an extra $120 per child to families receiving SNAP benefits. This is part of a program called Summer EBT, which helps parents feed their kids during summer break when free school meals aren’t available.
This $120 is meant to help families buy healthy groceries like fruits, vegetables, milk, and other essentials. It’s a one-time payment for each eligible child.
Which States Are Offering the $120 Boost?
Not all states are part of this program. So far, over 30 states have confirmed they will give the $120 Summer EBT benefit in 2025. These include:
- California
- New York
- Illinois
- Michigan
- Pennsylvania
- Arizona
- Oregon
- Colorado
- Many more
Some states are still deciding if they will join. Families should check their state’s SNAP website or contact local SNAP offices for the latest updates.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Summer EBT (also called SUN Bucks) time.com+14fns.usda.gov+14expressnews.com+14 |
| Benefit Amount | $120 total per child (about $40/month in June, July, August) |
| Who Qualifies | – Children in SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or Medicaid – OR those in schools offering free/reduced meals under NSLP/SBP |
| How Benefits Are Given | Loaded onto existing EBT/P‑EBT card or sent as a separate Summer EBT card |
| When It Starts | Generally late May or early June 2025 (varies by state) |
| Use Restrictions | Can buy: fruits, veggies, meat, dairy, bread, snacks (non‑alcoholic). Cannot buy hot meals, pet supplies, medicine, or hygiene items. |
| Program Reach | Over 30 states, many tribes, and territories (48 states plus tribes/territories participate) |
| Opt-Out States | Some Republican-led states refused (e.g., Texas, Idaho, Tennessee). 13–15 states opted out. |
| Why It Matters | Helps summer hunger, boosts nutrition, supports local stores and farms |
| State Example: New York | Issued $250 million to 2.2 million kids, first payments mid‑June |
| State Example: Michigan | Restarted SUN Bucks in summer 2025, $120 per child, applications till Aug 31 |
Who Qualifies for the Extra $120?
To get the $120 boost, your child must:
- Already be approved for SNAP, Medicaid, or other low-income programs
- Attend a school that offers free or reduced-price meals
- Live in a state participating in the Summer EBT program
The money will be automatically added to your EBT card or mailed as a separate card, depending on your state’s rules.
Why Is This Important for Families?
Many families struggle to afford groceries, especially during summer vacation when school meals stop. The $120 per child can help reduce food insecurity and ensure children stay healthy during the summer.
Experts say this extra support can help improve kids’ nutrition, learning ability, and overall well-being.
The $120 boost for SNAP families in 2025 is good news for many parents. With food prices rising, this extra help can make a big difference during the summer months. Families should check with their state SNAP office to learn if they qualify and how to get the benefit. Programs like Summer EBT are designed to make sure children have enough to eat even when school is out, and it shows how states are trying to support families during tough times.
What is the $120 SNAP Boost for 2025?
The $120 SNAP Boost is extra food money given to families with eligible children during summer 2025. It helps parents buy groceries when school meals are not available.
Who can get the $120 per child?
You can get this money if:
Your child is part of SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or other low-income programs
Your child gets free or reduced-price meals at school
You live in a state that is part of the Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) program
Do I need to apply for the $120 benefit?
In most cases, families already getting SNAP or free school meals are automatically enrolled. Some states may ask families to apply. Always check your state’s SNAP website for details.
How will I get the $120 payment?
The money will be added to your current EBT card. If you don’t have an EBT card, your state may send you a new card by mail.
Can I use the $120 to buy anything?
No, the money can only be used for food items like:
Fruits and vegetables
Milk, bread, rice, and meat
Snacks and drinks (non-alcoholic)
You cannot use it for hot prepared meals, alcohol, pet food, or non-food items.
