Summer EBT Applications Available Soon in New York State

Here's when and how families can apply for New York’s new Summer EBT program.

As the school year comes to an end across New York many families will soon find themselves in need of help covering the cost of extra groceries to feed the kids while they are out of school. To help New York has launched the new Summer EBT program that will benefit low-income households across the state.

New York's Summer EBT Program

The summer EBT program is designed to help families offset the extra cost of feeding children home for the summer who normally eat at school during the school year. Most families that are approved in the program receive $120 per school-aged kid for each month of the summer on a card similar to SNAP. The funds on each card are temporary and will expire 122 days after being deposited and are good at retailers like grocery stores and farmer's markets.

Many families that are already receiving SNAP, temporary assistance, or reduced-price school meals are automatically eligible for the summer EBT program, but others have to apply.

Is My Child Eligible?

If your child isn't automatically eligible families will need to meet a few guidelines including, the child must attend a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP), and the household's income must be at or below the limits for eligibility for free/reduced-price school meals. If you meet those guidelines you are eligible to fill out an online application starting July 1st. Applications will be available online here.

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If you have questions or aren't sure if your child is eligible the New York’s Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance (ODTA) will open a phone helpline on July 1st. Families can call (833) 452-0096 to check their status.

How to Apply for the Summer EBT Program in New York

Families will need to have an NY.gov ID account, along with the names, dates of birth, and schools of each child who is applying for the program. Applicants will also need to submit contact information including address, phone number, and email, as well as the names and income information of every other household member. Applications are due by September 3rd, 2024.