Summer EBT Benefit: SUN Bucks
The Summer EBT program ha s anew name: SUN Bucks. The United States Department of Agriculture offers SUN Bucks, a program for students to access food during the summer break. SUN Bucks helps kids thrive by providing families with resources to purchase healthy foods during the summer months.
What is SUN Bucks?
SUN Bucks is an income-based food support program that offers eligible families $40 per month per child (a total of $120) during the summer. Funds are provided on SUN Bucks EBT cards and must be used within 122 days of issuance. Families are encouraged to use their benefits as soon as possible to avoid expiration.
Who is Eligible?
The program is available for school-aged children, ages 7-17 whose households participate in specific public assistance programs, or have an approved Educational Benefits Application. Participation in SUN Bucks does not affect immigration status.
Many families will receive SUN Bucks automatically if they are getting other benefits, but some families may need to apply. NOTE: All students are not automatically eligible because of free meals offered at Centennial Schools. Students must qualify for SUN Bucks through the Educational Benefits Application process. If you have not completed an application, see the link below.
Students are automatically enrolled in SUN Bucks if they are directly certified through programs such as:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Minnesota Family Investment Program (MFIP)
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
- Foster care or Medicaid
- Students identified as homeless, migrant, or runaway (categorically eligible)
- Students with an approved Application for Educational Benefits.
Educational Benefits Application
How does this program work?
The benefits will be provided on a new SUN Bucks card and can be used to buy groceries. Families will receive $120 per eligible child for the summer ($40 per month for June, July, and August). SUN Bucks cards can be used just like an EBT card. Learn more on where to shop with a SUN Bucks card, what participants can buy and more at the link below.
What can be purchased with a SUN Bucks card?
Not sure if you are eligible?
If the household is not automatically enrolled and may be eligible, complete the application at the link below.
Who do I contact for more information?
If you are a parent or guardian and have questions about Summer EBT for your child, you can call the Department of Human Services (DHS) call center number at 651-431-4608 or 1-833-454-0153.