For millions of families across the United States, summer vacation doesn’t just mean time off from school it also means added stress about putting food on the table. With school cafeterias closed, many kids miss out on free or reduced-price lunches they depend on during the academic year. To help bridge that gap, a new government benefit is stepping in and it could mean an extra $120 per child this summer.
So, who gets it? How does it work? And how do you know if you’re on the list? Let’s break it all down.
What’s the $120 Summer Benefit About?
It’s part of a newly launched federal initiative called the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer Program, also known as Sun Bucks. The goal is simple: provide extra money to help families buy groceries during the summer months when food insecurity often spikes.
Each eligible child between the ages of 6 and 18 will receive a one-time $120 payment, which can be used to buy food at authorized retailers. It’s a welcome cushion for parents trying to juggle expenses while keeping their children fed.
Who Is Eligible?
You may qualify for the $120 per child if your household meets one or more of the following conditions
- You receive benefits from
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations)
- Medicaid (in states participating in the Sun Bucks program)
- Your child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program, and your family meets the income guidelines.
Even if you don’t currently receive assistance through any of these programs, you may still qualify based on your household income. Each state sets its own rules, so it’s important to check your state’s eligibility criteria.
How Will You Receive the Funds?
If you’re already enrolled in SNAP, the $120 will be automatically loaded onto your existing EBT card no extra paperwork required.
If you’re not in SNAP but qualify under other guidelines, a new EBT card will be mailed to you, and you’ll be able to use it just like a debit card at grocery stores that accept SNAP.
Note: Payment dates vary by state. Some states began distributing funds as early as May, while others are expected to begin later this summer.
What Can You Buy With Sun Bucks?
The Sun Bucks benefit can be used to purchase most grocery store food items, including.
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy items like milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Bread, pasta, cereal, and snacks
- Non-alcoholic beverages
What you can’t buy includes
- Hot, prepared foods (like meals from a deli or food counter)
- Non-food household items (cleaning supplies, soap, etc.)
- Pet food
- Vitamins or medicine
What’s Going On with SNAP Rules?
Alongside the rollout of Sun Bucks, the federal government has also introduced major changes to the SNAP program as part of the recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill. These include.
- Reduced federal funding, which means states will have to cover more of the costs
- Tighter eligibility requirements, especially for certain immigrant groups
- Continued support only for:
- U.S. citizens
- Certain lawful permanent residents
- Specific groups from countries like Cuba, Haiti, Micronesia, Marshall Islands, and Palau
These changes could affect many families currently relying on SNAP, so it’s important to stay informed and make sure your benefits continue.
Don’t Miss Out — Check Your Eligibility
If you’re a parent or guardian, now’s the time to check if your child qualifies for the $120 Sun Bucks benefit. It’s not just a one-time payment it’s a helping hand during one of the most financially stressful times of the year.
Visit your state’s Department of Human Services or SNAP website for specific instructions on how to apply or confirm your status.
Final Thoughts
Summer should be about fun, not financial stress. The new Sun Bucks program is a meaningful step toward ensuring that no child goes hungry when school is out. Whether you’re already on SNAP or just getting by paycheck to paycheck, this is one benefit worth looking into.
Because when it comes to feeding your family, every dollar truly counts.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Always refer to your local state agency or fns.usda.gov for the most accurate and updated program details.