This Summer, New York state is launching a new Summer EBT program that provides households with food benefits to help cover the cost of groceries when school is out of session and students cannot rely on school meals during the weekday.
Summer EBT provides a benefit of $120 per child on a card that low-income families can use, just like SNAP benefits. These funds can be used to purchase eligible food items at SNAP participating grocery stores, farmers markets, and other retailers.
While most eligible children will receive Summer EBT food benefits automatically, some families may need to apply. Those who will automatically receive benefits are those who already receive SNAP and/or Temporary Assistance benefits, or those who have been determined eligible for free/reduced price school meals by their school.
Please note that since many school districts are now offering free meals to all students, some families who qualify did not complete an application for free/reduced meals and may not automatically be enrolled in Summer EBT. To check on your child’s specific eligibility, a helpline will be activated on July 1 at 1-833-452-0096. Parents / guardians may also find more information at OTDA.NY.gov/SummerEBT.
Children will not receive Summer EBT benefits on a family’s SNAP EBT card. Each child will receive their own Summer EBT card. Eligible families will be notified beginning in late-June with a personalized communication to parents/guardians at the current mailing address on file. Emails and text messages will also be sent if that information is on file. Summer EBT benefits will expire 122 days from the date they are deposited into the account.
For children who need to apply to receive benefits, the online application is available at OTDA.NY.gov/SummerEBT. The online application will launch July 1 and will be available in English and Spanish.
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