Sun Bucks Program: Active or Discontinued in 2025? Know all the details!
The SUN Bucks Program, officially known as the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (Summer EBT), is a federal scheme that provides nutritional support for school-going children during summer vacations. When schools are closed and students are deprived of regular mid-day meals or breakfast, this scheme helps them buy essential food items.
In 2025, the program not only continues but has also included more states, so that more and more children can get healthy food. Eligible families are given a benefit of $120 (about ₹ 10,000) per eligible child, so that they can buy essential food items during summer vacations.
Full details of Sun Bucks Program
This scheme is operational in many states across the US and provides financial relief to needy families. This program is an important resource for families who depend on school meals.
Moreover, this scheme does not affect immigration status, i.e. any eligible family can avail this assistance without any worries. In some states, families are automatically enrolled, while some have to apply. Therefore, it is essential that parents understand the process of their state and apply on time.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Status | Active in 2025 with expanded participation |
| Benefit Amount | $120 per eligible child per year |
| Eligibility Criteria | Children aged 0-22 years attending schools participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) and determined eligible for free or reduced-price meals; income-based eligibility for non-NSLP/SBP participants |
| Application Period | Varies by state; for example, Kansas accepts applications from January 27, 2025, to August 29, 2025 |
| Benefit Distribution | Benefits issued via Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) cards; funds must be used within 122 days of issuance |
| Official Resources | USDA SUN Bucks Program |
Eligibility Criteria of Sun Bucks Program
There are certain conditions to be met to avail this scheme, which may vary by state. For eligibility in general:
- Age limit: Children from 0 to 22 years are eligible.
- School participation: The child must study in a school that is part of the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP).
- Income determination: The family’s income limit falls within the criteria for free or reduced-price meals set by the government.
Note: Some children, even if they are receiving benefits such as Medicaid (Medi-Cal), are not automatically considered eligible. In such cases, parents will have to determine eligibility by filling out an Alternative Income Form at the school.
Benefit amount and distribution process
Under this scheme, each eligible child is given a one-time lump sum of $120 (approximately ₹ 10,000) per year. This amount is deposited in an EBT card, which can be used like a debit card.
- You can use this card at grocery stores, farmers markets and some online retail stores.
- This amount cannot be used on non-food items, alcohol, tobacco, medicines or prepared hot meals.
How to apply? (SUN Bucks Program Application Process)
The application process may be slightly different in each state.
- Automatic Enrollment: In some states, families are already enrolled. Such families will receive a notification letter in January 2025 and will not need to apply.
- Application Required: If you have not received a letter, you will have to apply yourself. For example, in the state of Kansas, the application will be available on the DCF Self-Service Portal from January 27, 2025 and must be submitted by August 29, 2025.
For other states:
Families should check their state’s government website or contact the relevant agency to know the application process.
What can Sun Bucks be used for?
This amount is given for nutritional essentials, such as:
- Fresh fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry and fish
- Dairy products (milk, cheese, yogurt etc.)
- Bread, cereals and other staple foods
- Snacks and non-alcoholic drinks
Important things you should know!
- Fund deadline: The amount added to the EBT card has to be used within 122 days. If you do not use it in this period, this amount will expire.
- No impact on immigration: This scheme does not affect the status of immigrants, so all eligible families can take advantage of it without worry.
- Use with other government schemes: If your child is receiving Sun Bucks, he can also participate in other summer meal programs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the Sun Bucks program still active in 2025?
Yes, the Sun Bucks program is active in 2025 and providing food assistance to eligible families during the summer.
2. How much assistance will each child receive?
Each eligible child is given $120 per year, which allows them to purchase essential food items.
3. Who is eligible for this program?
Children who are between the ages of 0 and 22 and who attend schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP). Also, their family income must meet the standards set by the government.
4. How do I apply for Sun Bucks?
If your children are not automatically enrolled, you will need to apply on your state’s government website. In some states, the application can be filled out online on the DCF Self-Service Portal.
5. Can the Sun Bucks amount be withdrawn in cash?
No, this amount can be used only for purchasing food items.
6. Will this scheme affect immigrants?
No, receiving Sun Bucks will not affect a family’s immigration status.
Conclusion
The Sun Bucks program continues in 2025 and is helping meet the nutritional needs of children during the summer holidays. If your child is eligible, make sure you apply on time and take full advantage of this assistance.