Your State Might Owe You $120 Per Child This Summer—See the Full List!

If you’re a parent wondering whether your child will get help with food this summer, you’re not alone. With school out and cafeteria meals on hold, many families are facing bigger grocery bills — and looking for answers.

The good news? There’s a new federal program offering extra grocery money to families with school-aged kids during the summer. It’s called Summer EBT, also known as SUN Bucks, and it’s giving qualifying families $120 per child to help cover the cost of food from June through August 2025.

But here’s the catch — not every state is participating.

So depending on where you live, you might be getting this benefit… or missing out entirely.

What Is Summer EBT?

Summer EBT stands for Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer. It’s a brand-new, permanent federal program meant to help families when school meal programs pause for the summer.

Families with eligible children get $40 per month, for three months, on a special EBT card. That money can be used to buy groceries — just like SNAP or traditional food stamps.

This program is designed for kids who normally receive free or reduced-price school meals or whose families receive certain types of government assistance.

Who Qualifies?

Generally, your child qualifies if they meet any of these:

• They’re enrolled in free or reduced-price school meal programs

• They’re part of a family receiving SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, or other qualifying programs

• They attend a school that participates in the National School Lunch or Breakfast Program

In some states, benefits are sent automatically. In others, you may need to apply online to receive the money.

How Much Do Families Receive?

Each eligible child gets a total of $120 for the summer. That’s split into $40 for each month: June, July, and August.

Some states send it all at once, while others split it month-by-month. Either way, it’ll come through a government-issued EBT card that can be used at most grocery stores.

Which States Are Sending Out Summer EBT in 2025?

As of now, 37 states are participating — along with Washington, D.C., five U.S. territories, and several tribal nations.

Here are just some of the states where families will receive the benefit:

• California

• New York

• Texas

• Illinois

• Pennsylvania

• Arizona

• Michigan

• North Carolina

• Washington

• Nevada

• And more

Also included:

• Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Northern Mariana Islands

• Tribal nations like the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Choctaw, Muscogee (Creek), and Otoe-Missouria

Some states, like New York, started sending letters to families as early as June 2, with benefits hitting cards around June 18. Timelines vary depending on where you live.

Which States Opted Out?

Unfortunately, 13 states chose not to participate in 2025. That means millions of kids who could’ve received help this summer won’t be getting it.

Here are the states not offering Summer EBT this year:

• Florida

• Georgia

• Tennessee

• Iowa

• Idaho

• Alaska

• Alabama

• Kansas

• Louisiana

• Mississippi

• Nebraska

• Oklahoma

• South Carolina

These states said no to the federal money — citing budget concerns or logistical challenges. Critics argue it leaves vulnerable kids behind, especially in rural or low-income communities.

Some local food programs may still be available in these areas, but they won’t reach everyone the way Summer EBT does.

What You Can Do Right Now

If you live in a participating state:

• Watch your mail or email. Many schools are sending letters or notices with benefit info.

• Check your EBT card. The money might show up on an existing card or a new SUN Bucks card.

• Visit your state’s social services website. You’ll find application info if your child isn’t enrolled automatically.

• Act fast. Some states have deadlines for submitting applications.

If your state isn’t participating:

• Look for summer food service programs in your area — such as free lunch sites at schools or community centers.

• Contact your local representatives. If you believe your state should opt in next year, make your voice heard.

Summer should be a time for kids to relax and enjoy their break — not worry about where their next meal is coming from. Summer EBT helps make that possible by giving families the extra support they need when school meals aren’t available.

If your family qualifies and your state is participating, make sure you don’t miss out. And if your state opted out, there are still ways to speak up, seek help, and plan ahead.