What can you buy with Summer EBT?
Summer EBT, also known as SUN bucks, is a special program that provides families with $120 per eligible school-age child to help buy groceries during summer break. It officially started in 2024, and many states and U.S. territories offer it.
Families with school-age children can still get Summer EBT even if they also receive SNAP, WIC, or free summer meal programs.
Summer EBT benefits stay on your EBT card or separate Summer EBT card (it varies by state) for 122 days and can’t be replaced if they expire, so make sure you use them in time.
Propel is the #1-rated EBT balance checking app
What foods are covered under Summer EBT?#what-foods-are-covered-under-summer-ebt
The rules for Summer EBT are the same as the rules for regular SNAP benefits, which means most groceries are included. Your Summer EBT can be used for any eligible grocery items, including:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, fish, and seafood
- Dairy products like milk, cheese, and yogurt
- Eggs
- Breads, cereals, and other grains
- Condiments and spreads, like ketchup, mustard, honey, peanut butter, and jam
- Frozen food, like pizza and ice cream
- Snacks, like chips, popcorn, and pretzels
- Soda, juice, water, and other cold beverages
Whether you get your Summer EBT/Sun Bucks on your regular EBT card or on a special Summer EBT card that you get in the mail, you can use it just like a debit card (as long as you’re buying eligible items).
What foods are not covered under Summer EBT?#what-foods-are-not-covered-under-summer-ebt
Like with SNAP benefits, you can’t use your Summer EBT benefits on certain items, including:
- Hot or prepared foods and beverages, like to-go hot coffee or fast food
- Personal hygiene items, like toilet paper, pads, or tampons
- Pet food
- Diapers and wipes
- Cleaning supplies, like sponges, paper towels, or bleach
- Vitamins
- Nutritional supplements
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
Can I use the Propel app with my Summer EBT benefits?#can-i-use-the-propel-app-with-my-summer-ebt-benefits
Yes, you can use Propel to check your Summer EBT balance, even if you have multiple cards or accounts. Propel makes it easy to track your SUN Bucks and regular SNAP balance in one place.
