The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT) program supports families with children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals, providing funds to purchase food during the summer break.
Summer EBT is also known as SUN bucks. it is a special program started in 2024, and many states and U.S. territories offer. Summer EBT Program provides low cost families with $120 per eligible school-age child to help buy groceries during summer break.
Note, families with school-age children can still receive Summer EBT if they are also receiving SNAP, WIC or the Free Summer Meals program.
Summer EBT benefits last for 122 days on your EBT card or a separate Summer EBT card, which varies on the state by state, and if they expire, they will be refunded. So make sure you use EBT Card on time.
In fact, this initiative helps ensure that children stay nourished even when school cafeterias are closed. So, what can you purchase with Summer EBT, and what is the main topic that users often ask about?
What can You purchase with summer EBT card
Summer EBT benefits are loaded onto an Summer EBT card, which can be used at authorized locations like grocery stores, supermarkets, and certain farmers’ markets. The program focuses on nutritious foods, and here’s what’s eligible:
- Fruits and Veggies: Fresh options like oranges and spinach, frozen berries, or canned peas.
- Protein Foods: Chicken, ground beef, fish, eggs, or plant-based options like lentils.
- Dairy: Milk, yogurt, cheese, or non-dairy alternatives like soy milk.
- Grains: Bread, tortillas, oatmeal, or pasta, ideally whole-grain for added nutrition.
- Pantry Essentials: Nut butters, cooking oils, spices, or canned goods like soups.
- Food-Producing Plants: Seeds or small plants, such as basil or pepper plants, for growing your own food.
What items You can’t purchase with an EBT card?
To keep the focus on healthy eating, Summer EBT has restrictions. You cannot use the benefits for:
- Non-Food Products: Diapers, cleaning supplies, or pet food.
- Alcohol or Tobacco: No beer, wine, or cigarettes.
- Prepared Meals: Hot foods or takeout, like rotisserie chicken or sandwiches from a deli.
- Supplements: Vitamins, protein shakes, or herbal products.
Online Shopping with Summer EBT
Can Summer EBT be used for online grocery shopping? In many states, the answer is yes! Retailers like Amazon, Walmart and select grocery chains accept EBT for online purchases, which offers convenience for families who prefer delivery or pickup. However, not all states or stores participate, so check your state’s Summer EBT program or retailer’s website to confirm eligibility. This option is especially helpful for people who have limited access to physical stores or who have a busy schedule.
Quick Tips for Buying Product using Summer EBT Card
- Verify which stores or markets near you accept EBT.
- Plan purchases to focus on healthy, budget-friendly foods.
- Look for discounts or matching programs at farmers’ markets to get more value.
Summer EBT enables families to provide healthy meals for children during the summer. By understanding what you can afford and exploring options such as online shopping, you can effectively use these benefits to meet your household’s needs.
