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How to Get Summer EBT

In states, Tribes, and territories participating in Summer EBT, school-aged children whose families receive SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or certain other income-based benefits will be automatically enrolled to receive Summer EBT. Additionally, children who attend a school that offers the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program and whose household income makes them eligible for free or reduced-price school meals may also be automatically enrolled in Summer EBT.

Children who are not automatically enrolled may still be eligible for Summer EBT. To qualify, a child’s household must meet certain income limits and other requirements. Apply directly to the agency that administers Summer EBT in your state, Tribe, or territory.

Once a child is enrolled, Summer EBT may be automatically added to the household’s SNAP account, issued as a separate electronic benefits transfer (EBT) card, or sent in other ways depending on how the program is operated where you live.

2026 Participating Tribal Nations/States/Territories

Select your Tribal Nation below or state/territory on the map to find out if Summer EBT is available where you live and for more information on how to apply.

This page will be updated regularly as agencies finalize their plans to participate in Summer EBT in 2026.

To operate the program an agency must have an approved plan.

   Participating.

   Plans to Participate.

   Tribes within the state are participating.

   Not participating.

Attention Oklahoma residents! The Tribes listed below will be issuing 2025 benefits to all eligible children residing on Tribal land, regardless of Tribal membership. Please contact the Tribal Nation to learn more.


  Cherokee Nation
  Chickasaw Nation
  Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma
  Muscogee Creek Nation
  Otoe-Missouria Tribe
AL AK AZ AR CA CO CT DE DC FL GA HI ID IL IN IA KS KY LA ME MD MA MI MN MS MO MT NE NV NH NJ NM NY NC ND OH OK OR PA RI SC SD TN TX UT VT VA WA WV WI WY AS GU CNMI PR USVI Mountain Plains Region Midwest Region Northeast Region Mid-Atlantic Region Southeast Region Southwest Region Western Region

Summer EBT not available where you live?

Summer EBT is available at schools, parks, and other locations across the U.S. And in some rural areas, kids can get non-congregate summer meals.


Summer EBT FAQs

What can I buy with Summer EBT?

You can use Summer EBT to pay for:

  • fruits and vegetables
  • meat, poultry, and fish
  • dairy products
  • breads and cereals
  • snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks

You cannot use Summer EBT to purchase:

  • hot foods
  • pet foods
  • cleaning or household supplies
  • personal hygiene items
  • medicine
Where can I use Summer EBT?

Many grocery stores, farmers markets, convenience stores, and online retailers accept Summer EBT. Often, these are the same places that accept SNAP and WIC. Use the SNAP Retailer Locator to find stores near you.

How do I know if my child is eligible for Summer EBT?

Your child is eligible, if:

  • They are school-age and your household already participates in benefits like SNAP, FDPIR, or TANF
    Or,
  • Your child attends a school that offers the National School Lunch or School Breakfast Program, and your household income meets the requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.
How do I apply for Summer EBT?

Many children will get Summer EBT automatically if their household receives other income-based benefits like SNAP or TANF, but some will need to apply. To apply, start by clicking on the map above to be directed to information specific to where you live.

If you need to apply, you will be asked to provide information such as your child’s name and date of birth, school, home address, and household income.


Resources for Program Operators and Partners

Page updated: May 12, 2026