How To Apply For SUN Bucks EBT 2024: Eligibility and Deadlines

This year, Pennsylvania is introducing SUN Bucks ebt, a new grocery benefits program for the summer. Each eligible child will receive a one-time payment of $120 to buy food while school is out. You can use these benefits at local stores that are part of the program. Many families will get these benefits automatically, but some will need to apply. The money will be added to your existing SNAP/TANF EBT card or a new Summer EBT card.

What is Sun Bucks EBT?

Beginning in the summer of 2024, states, territories, and certain tribal nations can give households $40 per month during the summer, up to $120 per eligible child. This Summer EBT benefit lets families buy groceries just like they would with SNAP benefits. Sun Bucks EBT will partner with other USDA nutrition programs to ensure every eligible child gets the food they need over the summer.

Who Is Eligible For Sun Bucks EBT In 2024?

There are many ways for a child to qualify for SUN Bucks. Most kids who will get SUN Bucks are automatically eligible and don’t need to apply. Use the Eligibility Navigator to see if your child qualifies and whether you need to apply.

A child will automatically get the $120 SUN Bucks benefit for the summer of 2024 if:

• The child attends a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program, and the household receives SNAP or TANF payments between July 1, 2023, and August 31, 2024.
• The household received SNAP or TANF benefits between July 1, 2023, and August 31, 2024, and the child is not enrolled in a school that takes part in the National School Lunch Program but is between the ages of 6-18 during that time; OR
• The child received Medicaid with an income that qualifies for the National School Lunch Program between July 1, 2023, and August 31, 2024, and the child is enrolled in a school that takes part in the National School Lunch Program; OR
• The child received Medicaid with an income that qualifies for the National School Lunch Program between July 1, 2023, and August 31, 2024, and the child is not enrolled in a school that takes part in the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program but is between the ages of 6-18 during that time; OR
• The child is in Head Start, homeless, in foster care, or a runaway, and is enrolled in a school that takes part in the National School Program; OR
• The child applied for and was approved for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program.

You may need to apply for SUN Bucks EBT if:

Your child goes to a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), but they don’t qualify for free or reduced-price meals. This is because they don’t meet the requirements for direct certification (like SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid with the right income), categorical eligibility (such as being homeless, in foster care, a migrant, a runaway, or in Head Start), or a household application for free or reduced school meals for the 2023-2024 school year.

How Do Households Apply for SUN Bucks EBT 2024 benefit?

Most kids will automatically qualify for SUN Bucks, so there’s no need to apply. Only families who don’t qualify automatically should fill out an application. To get SUN Bucks for the summer of 2024, families need to complete an application through DHS. In July, the application will be available as a fillable PDF in both English and Spanish on the DHS SUN Bucks webpage. Paper copies can also be requested from the County Assistance Office (CAO).

The application is set to be ready on July 1, 2024. To get SUN Bucks EBT this year, be sure to submit your application by August 31, 2024.

How to Apply For The SUN Bucks EBT 2024

Automatic Enrollment: Most eligible households will receive SUN Bucks automatically if they are already receiving other benefits. However, some households may need to apply separately.

Eligibility Check: Use the Eligibility Navigator tool to determine if your child qualifies for SUN Bucks and to find out if you need to apply.

Application Process: You must complete a brief application if you are not enrolled automatically but think your kids qualify.

Application Deadlines:

• Before August 31, 2024: Applications submitted by this date will be considered for SUN Bucks benefits within this year.
• After August 31, 2024: Applications received after this date will be considered for the 2025 SUN Bucks benefits during the next summer’s application period.

Conclusion

Applying for SUN Bucks EBT 2024 involves a clear understanding of eligibility requirements and deadlines. To qualify, ensure you meet income and residency criteria, and gather necessary documentation like proof of income and identification. Submit your application through the designated online portal or local office before the specified deadlines. Timely application is crucial to securing benefits. Stay informed about updates and ensure all details are accurate to avoid delays. By following these steps, you can successfully navigate the application process and access valuable support through the SUN Bucks EBT program.