Food & Nutrition · Surprise rank #212
Get $120 Per Child for Summer Groceries (Even If You Aren't on SNAP!)
Summer EBT provides a one-time $120 grocery benefit per eligible school-age child. Many qualify automatically, but others must apply before the fall deadline.
Who
Children automatically eligible through certain programs or schools, plus families who meet application rules.
What to do
Start here: Check New York’s Summer EBT page and eligibility flowchart for the current summer.
Eligibility: Child and household must meet program eligibility; card/address and application status matter.
What you get
Eligible children receive a summer grocery benefit even when they are not enrolled in SNAP, if they qualify through another route.
Benefit: $120 in grocery benefits per eligible child through SUN Bucks/Summer EBT.
Possible value: $120 per eligible child each summer under the federal program.
Good to know
Important: Most children are automatic, but some must apply. New York application dates, issuance timing and benefit expiration must be checked each program year.
Availability: Seasonal; recheck New York application and issuance status each summer.
Why people miss it: Some families expect automatic issuance but need to apply, while others mistake the card for junk mail.
Sources reviewed: Aug 2, 2026