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Summer EBT, also called SUN Bucks, helps eligible children buy groceries during summer school breaks in participating jurisdictions. It began in 2024 as a separate program from the ended Pandemic EBT program. There is no single national application or deposit date.

Start with USDA’s Summer EBT information, then follow the current guidance for your state, territory or participating Tribal agency. Participation and administration can change between years.

Find out whether your child needs an application

Some children are identified through existing assistance or school eligibility records. Others need an application. A school offering meals to every student does not, by itself, establish each student’s individual Summer EBT eligibility.

Use your administering agency’s current eligibility tool or contact its office. Confirm:

  • Whether your child’s existing records establish eligibility.
  • Whether the school and household meet the relevant requirements.
  • Whether an application is needed and which year’s deadline applies.
  • Whether the agency has your current mailing address.

Do not use another state’s age rules, phone number or application form. The earlier version of this guide incorrectly presented New York details as national instructions.

Check this year’s amount and deadline

Read the year on the agency’s notice before planning around a payment. As one example, New York’s 2026 program provides $120 per eligible child. Its 2026 application period closed September 8; the state says late applications are considered for 2027. This does not establish another jurisdiction’s amount or deadline.

Keep the card and check expiration

Follow your agency’s instructions about reusing a card or receiving a new one. It is incorrect to say every eligible child gets a new Summer EBT card every year.

Use the official balance service or the number printed on the card. Confirm the issuance date and expiration date rather than counting from the day the card arrived. For example, Iowa’s 2026 SUN Bucks FAQ explains the 122-day benefit-use period. A replacement card does not renew an expired benefit.

If you need food now

Ask the state SNAP agency about ongoing household food assistance and the child’s school about available school meals. Summer EBT, SNAP and school meals have different eligibility and operating rules. Applying for one should not be treated as an application for every other program.