NYS Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT)
Summer EBT is a federal program to help low-income households with school-aged children purchase food over the summer when school is not in session, and children do not have access to free or reduced-price meals at school.
2026 Summer EBT benefits will start in June 2026 and continue throughout the summer. Families will begin receiving letters about their eligibility in the spring and early summer.
Who can get Summer EBT?
Automatic Enrollment
Children will get Summer EBT automatically for Summer 2026 if:
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The child is 6–16 years old and gets SNAP, cash assistance, or Medicaid between July 1, 2025 and September 8, 2026
OR
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The child is any age and gets free or low-cost school meals
How to Apply
Most families do not need to apply, and will receive the benefits automatically.
If your child is not automatically enrolled, you may need to fill out an application to receive Summer EBT food benefits.