$120 SUN Bucks Payments For SNAP Beneficiaries: For families relying on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to help cover food costs, this summer brings good news. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has rolled out the SUN Bucks program, offering $120 per child in grocery assistance to millions of eligible households. This article breaks down everything you need to know about the SUN Bucks program, including eligibility, participating states, practical tips for maximizing benefits, and common questions families might have.
$120 SUN Bucks Payments For SNAP Beneficiaries
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | SUN Bucks (Summer EBT) |
| Benefit Amount | $120 per eligible child (one-time payment) |
| Eligibility | SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, Medicaid (in some states), NSLP/SBP students |
| Participating States | 35+ states, including CA, NY, IL, PA, MI, MN, NC, OH, OR, UT, VT, VA, WA, WV, WI |
| Non-Participating States | FL, TX, GA, TN |
| Usage | Grocery stores, farmers’ markets, some online platforms |
| Expiration | 122 days after issuance |
| Application Deadline | Varies by state (e.g., Aug 31, 2025, in Minnesota) |
| Official Resource | USDA SUN Bucks Information |
The SUN Bucks program is a critical support system for millions of American families facing food insecurity this summer. With benefits now available in over 35 states, it’s an essential resource for ensuring children have access to healthy, nutritious food when school is out. Be sure to check your state’s deadlines and make the most of this valuable benefit.
What is the SUN Bucks Program?
The SUN Bucks program is part of the broader Summer EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) initiative by the USDA. It aims to fill the nutritional gap for children who rely on free or reduced-price school meals during the academic year but may face food insecurity in the summer. This program is crucial as it provides a lifeline for families who might otherwise struggle to afford groceries during the months when school meals are unavailable.
The program provides $120 per eligible child to purchase groceries at participating stores, including major supermarkets, small grocers, farmers’ markets, and some online platforms. This one-time payment is designed to reduce the strain on low-income families and ensure children have access to nutritious meals even when school is out. In addition to reducing hunger, the program helps boost local economies by supporting retailers and farmers who accept these benefits.
Why is the SUN Bucks Program Important?
The summer months can be particularly challenging for families relying on free or reduced-price school meals. Without these daily breakfasts and lunches, many households face increased grocery costs. According to the USDA, more than 22 million children across the United States rely on school meal programs during the academic year. Without additional support, these families could struggle to make ends meet over the summer.
Additionally, studies have shown that children who experience food insecurity over the summer are at a greater risk of academic setbacks, developmental issues, and long-term health problems. By providing targeted nutritional support, SUN Bucks aims to bridge this gap, ensuring that children return to school in the fall healthy, well-nourished, and ready to learn.
How to Qualify for SUN Bucks
Eligibility for the SUN Bucks program is generally straightforward but varies slightly by state. Here’s a quick overview:
Automatically Eligible Groups
Children are automatically eligible if they:
- Live in a household that receives benefits from SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or Medicaid (in certain states).
- Attend a school participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) and are approved for free or reduced-price meals.
Application-Based Eligibility
Families not automatically enrolled can apply if:
- Their household income is at or below 185% of the federal poverty level.
- They have children aged 6–18 who are not enrolled in NSLP/SBP schools but meet income requirements.
For more specific state-level eligibility details, check your state’s official SUN Bucks page or contact the administering agency.
States Participating in the SUN Bucks Program (2025)
As of 2025, over 35 states, territories, and tribal nations are participating in the program, including:
- States: California, New York, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Minnesota, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin.
- Territories: Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, Northern Mariana Islands.
- Tribal Nations: Cherokee Nation, Chickasaw Nation, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Muscogee Creek Nation, Otoe-Missouria Tribe.
However, some states like Florida, Texas, Georgia, and Tennessee have opted not to participate in 2025. Reasons for non-participation can include political considerations, administrative costs, and logistical challenges in implementing the program.
How to Use Your SUN Bucks
Once you receive your SUN Bucks, using them is straightforward:
- Where to Use: Grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and select online platforms.
- What You Can Buy: Fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, grains, and other eligible food items.
- What You Can’t Buy: Hot foods, pet food, cleaning supplies, hygiene items, alcohol, or tobacco.
- Expiration: Benefits must be used within 122 days of issuance.
Maximizing Your SUN Bucks Benefits
To get the most value out of your SUN Bucks benefits, consider these tips:
- Plan Your Meals: Create a shopping list based on healthy, cost-effective recipes.
- Buy in Bulk: Purchase items like rice, pasta, and canned goods to stretch your budget.
- Shop at Farmers’ Markets: Many markets offer discounts or additional benefits for EBT users.
- Use Coupons and Store Promotions: Combine SUN Bucks with other available discounts.
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FAQs About $120 SUN Bucks Payments For SNAP Beneficiaries
Q: How do I know if my state is participating?
A: You can find the full list of participating states on the USDA website.
Q: Can I use SUN Bucks online?
A: Yes, some states allow online use through platforms like Amazon and Walmart. Check your state’s specific rules.
Q: What happens if I don’t use my benefits within 122 days?
A: Unused funds will expire and cannot be reissued.
