What is Summer EBT?
Summer EBT, or SUN Bucks, is a new permanent nutrition program authorized by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) to help families buy food for their school-aged children during the summer. SUN Bucks 2024 will provide a $120 annual benefit to eligible children, via an Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) issuance by the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) later this summer. More basic information on the new federal program is available on the USDA website at www.fns.usda.gov/sebt/household. Illinois is one of 36 states that have announced their intent to launch Summer EBT in summer 2024.

Is my child eligible?
Your child is eligible for SUN Bucks if:

• Your child is identified as direct certified due to participation in SNAP, TANF, income-eligible Medicaid (185% of the federal poverty guideline), or is identified as foster, homeless, or migrant.
• Your child attends a school that offers the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and/or School Breakfast Program (SBP), and your household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals. (A household can complete a Household Eligibility Application (HEA) at schools participating in NSLP/SBP at any point during the school year. Contact your school for an HEA.)

How do I enroll my child in SUN Bucks?
If your household has already been notified of automatic eligibility, your child will be automatically enrolled in the SUN Bucks program. You do not need to fill out an application. You will get a card in the mail sent to the address your child’s school has on file. (Households are encouraged to ensure that the enrolling school has your current mailing address.) If you are not automatically enrolled and believe your child is eligible, you can apply to receive SUN Bucks by filling out a simple application. A statewide Summer EBT application will be made available after the school year has ended. More details will be shared once they are available.

Who should I contact if I have questions?
Your school can assist you with basic questions about Summer EBT. However, households should visit the DHS website (www.dhs.state.il.us/) for information about Illinois Summer EBT specific information. IDHS will be setting up a customer help line at (833) 621-0737 to assist families. The agency will be able to assist with such things as the card distribution timeline, usage, allowable expenses, and lost or misplaced cards.