Millions of families across the United States are set to receive additional food assistance this month through the SNAP Summer EBT program, part of a broader USDA initiative to support children during the summer break when school meals are unavailable.
The Summer EBT (Electronic Benefit Transfer) rollout in June 2025 is gaining momentum, with several states already distributing funds to eligible households.
What Is SNAP Summer EBT?
Summer EBT is a federal food assistance program designed to help low-income families with children access meals during the summer months. The program provides prepaid grocery benefits — typically loaded onto EBT or P-EBT cards — for use at participating retailers.
Administered in partnership with state governments, Summer EBT works alongside traditional SNAP benefits and the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) to reduce child hunger during school vacations.
Who Qualifies for SNAP Summer EBT?
To receive Summer EBT benefits in 2025, children must meet one of the following eligibility criteria:
- Receive free or reduced-price school meals under the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
- Be enrolled in a school participating in the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)
- Receive SNAP, TANF, or Medicaid benefits in states using those programs to determine eligibility
Households do not need to apply in most participating states. Benefits are automatically issued to eligible families based on school and state records.
How Much Do Families Receive?
In 2025, the USDA set the benefit rate at $40 per child per month, covering the summer period of June, July, and August. Over the course of the summer, eligible families can receive up to $120 per child to spend on groceries.
Which States Are Sending SNAP EBT in June 2025?
As of June 2, the following states are actively issuing Summer EBT benefits this month:
- California – Distribution began in early June
- New York – Rolling payments expected throughout the month
- Texas – Scheduled to begin mid-June
- Illinois
- Florida
- Georgia
- Ohio
- Pennsylvania
Each state has its own disbursement schedule, and some are waiting for final federal approval or additional system updates.
🗓 Check with your state’s Department of Human Services or local school district to confirm benefit issuance dates.
Not All States Are Participating in 2025
While over 30 states opted into Summer EBT, some—including Arkansas, Mississippi, and South Dakota—have declined participation for 2025, citing administrative burden or philosophical opposition to expanding federal food aid.
This has sparked criticism from food security advocates, especially in high-need rural regions.
How Can SNAP Benefits Be Used?
Summer EBT benefits are loaded onto existing SNAP or P-EBT cards, depending on your state. Funds can be used to buy:
- Fruits and vegetables
- Dairy and meat products
- Bread, grains, and cereals
- Non-alcoholic beverages and snacks
However, benefits cannot be used for:
- Hot prepared foods
- Pet food
- Household supplies or hygiene items
Why Summer EBT Matters in 2025
With food prices still elevated in many regions, especially for staples like milk, eggs, and fresh produce, Summer EBT offers a critical lifeline for families relying on school meals during the academic year.
According to the USDA, more than 30 million children receive free or reduced-price meals during the school year, but only a fraction access meals during the summer. Summer EBT aims to bridge that gap and curb rising food insecurity.
Quick Facts: SNAP Summer EBT 2025
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Benefit | $40 per eligible child |
| Total for Summer | Up to $120 per child |
| Usage | Grocery items via EBT card |
| Eligible Recipients | Children on NSLP, SNAP, TANF, CEP |
| Distribution Start | June 2025 |
| Administered By | USDA + State Agencies |
What To Do If You Haven’t Received Your Summer EBT
- Contact your local Department of Social Services (DSS) or school district
- Check for updates on your state’s official SNAP or EBT website
- Ensure your child’s eligibility information is up to date
States have until September 30, 2025, to complete benefit distribution, so families who haven’t yet received funds may still be included in future payment rounds.
MORE COVERAGE: Stay informed on the latest SNAP and EBT updates
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