The $120 Summer EBT Boost 2024 program aims to provide critical financial support to families with school-aged children who receive free meals during the academic year. This initiative ensures that no child goes without essential nutrition during the summer break when school meal programs are unavailable.
If your child qualifies for free school meals, you might be eligible for this benefit. Here’s everything you need to know about the program, eligibility, and payment timelines.
What is the $120 Summer EBT Boost?
The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) is part of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) designed to assist low-income families. It provides $120 per child to families whose children participate in the National School Lunch Program. These funds help bridge the nutritional gap during school closures by enabling families to purchase groceries.
Key Highlights
| Program Name | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | Families with children in free lunch programs |
| Payment Mode | Direct Deposit or EBT Card |
| Payment Amount | $120 per child |
| Administered By | U.S. Government |
| Payment Dates | Based on state-specific schedules |
The payment will be loaded directly onto an EBT card or other approved payment methods.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the $120 Summer EBT Boost 2024, families must meet the following criteria:
- Enrollment in Free Lunch Programs:
- The child must receive free school lunches during the academic year.
- School Participation in the National School Lunch Program:
- The child’s school must be a part of the federally funded National School Lunch Program.
- Household Income Limits:
- The household’s income must be at or below 185% of the federal poverty limit.
- Participation in TANF or SNAP:
- Families already enrolled in Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or SNAP are eligible.
- Special Circumstances:
- Children in foster care or similar situations are also eligible.
Payment Dates
The payment dates for the $120 Summer EBT Boost 2024 vary by state. Below is an overview of state-specific payment schedules for November 2024:
| State | Payment Dates |
|---|---|
| Alabama | November 4–23 |
| California | November 1–10 |
| Florida | November 1–28 |
| New York | November 1–9 |
| Texas | November 1–28 |
| Virginia | November 1–7 |
For a full list, visit the official SNAP website: www.usa.gov/food-stamps.
How to Claim the $120 Summer EBT Boost
If you qualify, here’s how to claim the benefit:
- Apply Online:
- Visit the official SNAP website and fill out the online application form.
- Provide Supporting Documents:
- Upload proof of eligibility, such as participation in the National School Lunch Program or SNAP benefits.
- Await Approval:
- Your application will be reviewed by the food stamp department.
- Receive Your EBT Card:
- Once approved, you’ll receive an EBT card or funds added to your existing card.
- Use the Funds:
- Use your EBT card at participating grocery stores to buy eligible food items.
The Role of the $120 Summer EBT Program
This program tackles food insecurity, one of the leading causes of hardship for families living below the poverty line. By ensuring consistent access to nutritious meals, the Summer EBT Boost aims to improve children’s health and well-being during the summer months.
