Summer Grocery Benefits Still Rolling Out: What Families Need to Know in July

As summer continues, many families across the country are still receiving grocery assistance through the Summer EBT program, commonly called SUN Bucks.

This federal program helps feed children when school cafeterias are closed for the summer.

How the Program Works

Eligible families typically receive $120 per child to help cover food costs during summer break. Families living in Hawaii and certain U.S. territories receive slightly higher amounts due to the higher cost of living in those areas.

July Payment Schedule

While many states started sending out benefits back in May and June, some families will see their payments arrive in July. This is happening for several reasons:

• Some states are sending payments in waves
• Benefit cards are still being mailed out
• Applications are still being reviewed and approved

New Jersey and Wyoming are the two states specifically scheduled to distribute payments in July. New Jersey expects to send benefits sometime in June or July, while Wyoming plans to begin in early July. Both states will mail new Summer EBT cards to eligible households.

Virginia is also processing applications on an ongoing basis, meaning some families there may receive their benefits in July as well.

Who Qualifies?

Children may automatically qualify if their family already participates in programs like:

• SNAP (food stamps)
• TANF (cash assistance)
• FDPIR (food distribution program)
• Medicaid (in some states)

Kids who receive free or reduced-price meals at school are also eligible. Families who don't automatically qualify can still apply if they meet income requirements.

States Not Participating

Not every state has opted into the Summer EBT program. The following states are not participating in 2026:

Alaska, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Mississippi, Oklahoma, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, and Utah.

What Families Should Do

If you live in a participating state and believe you qualify, keep an eye on your mailbox. Some families will have benefits added directly to their existing SNAP card, while others will receive a separate Summer EBT card that needs to be activated before it can be used.

It's also a good idea to check your state's application deadlines to make sure you don't miss out on this helpful benefit.

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