Many families in the U.S. are waiting for the extra help coming from the Summer EBT program called Sun Bucks. If you get help from food assistance programs like SNAP or have kids who get free school meals, you may be eligible for this extra $120 benefit. Here’s what you need to know about Sun Bucks, who qualifies, and when you’ll get the money on your EBT card.
What are Sun Bucks for Summer 2025?
The Sun Bucks program is a new summer food benefit designed to help families buy groceries during school vacation. When schools are closed for summer, many families struggle to provide meals for their kids. Sun Bucks aim to ease that burden by giving families extra money on their EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) card.
For Summer 2025, eligible families will get $120 per child to use for food. This money is meant to make sure kids don’t go hungry when school meals aren’t available.
Who Can Get the Sun Bucks Payment?
The Summer EBT program helps families who meet certain rules. You might qualify for the $120 Sun Bucks if:
Your child already gets free or reduced-price school meals.
Your family gets SNAP (food stamps), TANF (cash help), or certain other benefits.
Your household income is below the limit set by the state.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, check with your state’s EBT office or school district.
When Will You Get the $120 Sun Bucks on Your EBT Card?
The Sun Bucks payments usually start during the summer months when schools close. The exact date depends on where you live, as each state runs its own program.
Here’s what we know so far:
Some states started sending Sun Bucks in June 2025.
Other states may send payments in July or August 2025.
If you qualify, the $120 per child will be loaded directly onto your EBT card.
If your family already has an EBT card for SNAP or other benefits, the money will appear on the same card. If not, some states will mail you a special card with your Sun Bucks loaded.
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Summer EBT 2025 (called Sun Bucks) |
| Benefit Amount | $120 per eligible child |
| Purpose | Help families buy food during summer break when school meals are unavailable |
| Eligibility – Free/Reduced Meals | Children who already receive free or reduced‑price school lunches |
| Eligibility – SNAP/TANF | Families receiving SNAP (food stamps), TANF, or similar state benefits |
| Income Limit | Household income below state‑set limits |
| Who to Check With | State EBT office or local school district |
| Payment Timeline | Varies by state – payments may start in June, July, or August 2025 |
| Payment Method | Loaded directly onto your existing EBT card, or a special card mailed |
| Where You Can Use It | Grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and other EBT‑accepted food retailers |
| Allowed Purchases | Fruits, vegetables, dairy, grains, meat, poultry, non‑alcoholic drinks |
| Disallowed Purchases | Non‑food items like soap, pet food; alcohol |
| What to Do If You Don’t Get It | Contact state EBT/SNAP office, check with school, update contact info |
How Can You Use Sun Bucks?
You can use your Sun Bucks at grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and other places that accept EBT cards. You can buy things like:
Fruits and vegetables
Bread and grains
Dairy products
Meat and poultry
Snacks and drinks (non-alcoholic)
You cannot use Sun Bucks for non-food items like soap, pet food, or alcohol.
What If You Don’t Get Your Sun Bucks?
If you believe you qualify but haven’t received your Sun Bucks by the expected date:
Contact your state’s EBT or SNAP office.
Check with your child’s school to see if they sent eligibility information.
Keep your contact details updated with your benefits office.
The $120 Summer EBT Sun Bucks program is a big help for families during the summer of 2025. It ensures that children have access to healthy food even when school is out. If you think your family qualifies, stay informed by checking your state’s EBT updates or talking to your child’s school. Getting that extra help can make summer a little easier for your household.
What are Sun Bucks?
Sun Bucks is a summer food assistance program for families with children. Eligible families get $120 per child to help buy food during summer vacation when schools are closed.
Who can get the $120 Sun Bucks benefit?
You may qualify for Sun Bucks if:
Your child gets free or reduced-price school meals.
Your family gets SNAP (food stamps) or TANF.
Your household income is within your state’s limit.
How will I get the $120 Sun Bucks payment?
The money will be loaded directly onto your existing EBT card. If you don’t have one, your state may mail you a new EBT card.
When will Sun Bucks payments start in 2025?
It depends on your state. Some states started in June 2025, while others may send payments in July or August 2025.
Where can I use my Sun Bucks?
You can use Sun Bucks at grocery stores, supermarkets, or farmers’ markets that accept EBT cards. You can buy food items like fruits, vegetables, bread, dairy, meat, and snacks.
