Families across the U.S. are getting a welcome boost in April 2025—a $120 SNAP bonus per eligible child through the Summer EBT (SUN Bucks) program. This federally backed initiative helps households bridge the gap left when school meal programs pause for summer break, ensuring children continue to have access to nutritious food when they need it most.
Whether you’re a parent, community organizer, or social worker, understanding how this benefit works and how to claim it can make a big difference in your community.
What Is the $120 SNAP Bonus?
The SNAP $120 bonus, officially part of the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program or SUN Bucks, provides $120 per eligible school-aged child starting in April 2025. The benefit is designed to help families offset food costs during the summer months, when access to free or reduced-price school meals is unavailable.
Funded by the USDA and administered by states, the SUN Bucks program aims to reduce food insecurity, especially for households already enrolled in SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR, or those whose children qualify for free or reduced-price school meals.
Overview of the April 2025 SUN Bucks Bonus
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Program Name | Summer EBT / SUN Bucks |
| Bonus Amount | $120 per eligible child |
| Start Date | April 2025 |
| Eligibility | Children receiving free/reduced meals or living in SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR homes |
| Enrollment Type | Mostly automatic; applications required in some cases |
| How to Claim | Through your state SNAP or SUN Bucks portal |
| Official Site | fns.usda.gov/summer/sunbucks |
Why SUN Bucks Matters
When the school year ends, so do many students’ access to daily nutritious meals. SUN Bucks helps fill that void by:
- Reducing hunger among children during summer
- Providing financial relief to families already struggling with rising food costs
- Offering flexible grocery choices so parents can shop based on dietary and cultural needs
The program is especially vital as inflation continues to put pressure on household budgets.
Who Is Eligible for SUN Bucks?
Eligibility is broad, and most families won’t need to take any extra steps to qualify. Here’s how it breaks down:
Automatically Enrolled
Your child will automatically receive the $120 bonus if they:
- Attend a school participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP)
- Are approved for free or reduced-price meals, or
- Live in a household receiving SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR benefits
Apply Manually If:
Your child isn’t automatically enrolled but you believe your family qualifies, you can apply through your state’s SUN Bucks portal. Be prepared to submit:
- Income documentation
- Proof of school enrollment
- Residency verification
Each state manages applications differently, so check with your local SNAP office for specific instructions.
How to Claim Your $120 SUN Bucks Payment
Follow these simple steps to make sure your family receives the benefit:
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility
Visit your state’s SNAP or SUN Bucks portal to verify enrollment status.
Step 2: Monitor Your EBT Card or Mail
Eligible families will either see the $120 loaded onto their existing SNAP EBT card, or receive a new card by mail.
Step 3: Use the Funds
SUN Bucks can be used just like regular SNAP at grocery stores, farmers markets, and participating retailers.
Step 4: Use It Before It Expires
Check your card’s expiration policy. Some states set spending deadlines, typically by the end of summer.
What Can You Buy with SUN Bucks?
You can buy the same groceries allowed under SNAP:
| Allowed | Not Allowed |
|---|---|
| Fruits and vegetables | Alcohol, tobacco |
| Dairy products | Hot prepared foods |
| Bread, pasta, rice | Non-food items (soap, TP) |
| Meat, fish, tofu | Vitamins or supplements |
| Cereal and snacks (USDA approved) | Pet food |
For more detail, visit the SNAP food eligibility list.
What If You Don’t Receive the Bonus?
If you believe your child qualifies but haven’t received the benefit:
- Confirm that your child is enrolled in an eligible school
- Contact your local SNAP or school nutrition office
- Submit a manual application if necessary
Quick action can help resolve issues and ensure your family receives what it’s entitled to.
FAQs
Can I use the SUN Bucks with my current SNAP card?
Yes. If you’re automatically enrolled, the funds will be added to your existing card.
Is there a deadline to use the funds?
Yes. Most states require SUN Bucks to be used by late summer 2025. Check your state’s guidelines.
Do I need to apply if I already get SNAP?
No. If your child qualifies for free/reduced meals or you’re on SNAP/TANF, you should be enrolled automatically.
