Millions Of Americans Receive Good News As SSA Announces Additional SNAP Benefits

This summer, many Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients may benefit from an additional payment of up to $120 through the SUN Bucks project, also known as Summer EBT.

This initiative, launched by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), aims to provide additional support to low-income families with school-age children, ensuring they have sufficient food during the summer break when school-provided meals are unavailable.

Typically, SNAP benefit amounts range from $291 to $1,751 based on household size. However, during the summer months, eligible families can receive an extra $120 to help cover food costs.

As reported by La Grada on Sunday, August 4, 2024, the additional funds are intended to alleviate the financial burden of feeding children when free breakfasts and lunches are not available.

To qualify for this extra payment, families must have children in school. The program is designed to assist more than 30 million children across the United States.

However, not all states participate in the Summer EBT initiative, as some already offer similar support.

Eligible states include California, Connecticut, Illinois, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, with additional distributions scheduled throughout the summer.

SNAP benefits, or SUN Bucks, can be used to purchase a range of items including fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, bread, cereal, snacks, and soft drinks.

However, the funds cannot be used for hot food, pet food, cleaning supplies, personal hygiene items, or medications.

The additional SNAP benefits are provided through an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) debit card, which can be used at supermarkets, grocery stores, and mobile markets.

Beneficiaries can also make online purchases at retailers like Amazon and Walmart.

For families already enrolled in SNAP, Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), or the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR), enrollment in the Summer EBT program is automatic.

Those who are not currently receiving these benefits but believe they meet the eligibility requirements can apply for Summer EBT through the USDA website.

The distribution of these additional payments began on June 14 and will continue every two weeks through September.

In August, specific states including California, Connecticut, Illinois, Nebraska, Pennsylvania, and Virginia will issue these additional benefits.

Meanwhile, twelve states including Alabama, Alaska, and Florida will not participate in the program.

Eligible households will receive a $120 card for each child, providing $40 per month for food purchases during June, July, and August. It is important to use the funds within 122 days to maximize the benefit.