Summer EBT (aka SUN Bucks)

Description:

Summer EBT 2024 (aka SUN Bucks) is a new benefits program that provides families a $120 one-time benefit for each eligible school-aged child to buy groceries when school is not in session. Summer is a time when many children lose the free and reduced-price meals they get at school, and when households may need help putting meals on the table. Most families will receive benefits automatically, but some parents will need to apply.

Summer EBT issuances are planned for August 2024.

To check whether your child/children will receive automatic benefits or if an application is needed, click on Summer EBT Screener on https://abe.illinois.gov/abe/access/

Intake Process:

To check whether your child/children will receive automatic benefits or if an application is needed, click on Summer EBT Screener on https://abe.illinois.gov/abe/access/

Note: Children that are eligible for Summer EBT benefits through the Illinois School Board of Education (ISBE) for free or reduced-price lunch will not be found through the Summer EBT Screener until 07/01/2024.

If you have questions or problems using the Summer EBT Screener, you can contact the DHS at 1-833-621-0737.
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Summer EBT applications will be available starting 07/01/2024 via this page https://www.dhs.state.il.us/page.aspx?item=163478

Most children are eligible without a Summer EBT application. Children that are not automatically eligible for Summer EBT can submit an application if the child attended an Illinois School that participated in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) during the 2023-2024 school year. For a list of NSLP schools visit www.isbe.net/sebt. Summer EBT applications will be handled by the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE) and any child found eligible for Summer EBT benefits will be sent to IDHS for processing. Households that would like their child/children to receive Summer EBT benefits can also apply for Food, Cash, and/or Medical Assistance prior to the end of the summer operational period 08/31/2024, and they will be automatically enrolled in Summer EBT for Summer 2024 if they have a date of birth in the range listed above and are approved.

Program Fees:

None

Eligibility:

Eligibility for the Summer EBT Program include children:

*Ages 6-17 with a date of birth between 07/02/2005 and 08/31/2018 that have received Food, Cash, or Medicaid Assistance with income at or below 185% Federal Poverty Levels (FPL) anytime between 07/01/2023 through 08/31/2024; or
*Who attended a school that participated in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) during the 2023-2024 school year and was deemed income-eligible to receive a free or reduced-price lunch through streamlined certification or an application at the school; or
*Who attended a school that participated in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) during the 2023-2024 school year and filed a Summer EBT application that was deemed eligible.

Is Shelter?

No

Date of Official Change:

June 29, 2024

Phone Numbers

Legal Status:

State