To qualify for P-EBT benefits in 2024, particularly for the Summer EBT component, eligible children must meet specific criteria related to their age, household benefit status, and school meal program participation.
P-EBT, or Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer, is a program designed to provide food benefits to families whose children would typically receive free or reduced-price school meals. For 2024, specific criteria are in place for the Summer EBT program, which delivers benefits during the summer months when school is not in session.
Eligibility Criteria for Summer EBT 2024
Children must generally satisfy the following two main conditions to be eligible for Summer EBT benefits in 2024:
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Age and Household Benefit Status:
- The child must be school-aged.
- Their household must be currently receiving one of the following public assistance benefits:
- SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program)
- TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families)
- FDPIR (Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations)
- In certain specific situations, a child's eligibility may also be linked to their household's Medicaid benefits.
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School Enrollment and Meal Program Participation:
- The child must be enrolled in a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or the School Breakfast Program (SBP).
- The child must be officially approved for Free or Reduced-Price meals through their school. This approval typically occurs automatically if the household receives certain benefits (direct certification) or through a submitted and approved Free and Reduced-Price School Meal Application.
How to Receive Benefits
In most cases, if a child meets these eligibility criteria, they are automatically qualified for Summer EBT benefits. Families generally do not need to submit a separate application. State agencies typically use existing data from SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, Medicaid, and school meal programs to identify eligible children and disburse benefits. The benefits are commonly deposited directly onto an existing EBT card or a new P-EBT card issued and sent by mail.
To ensure a smooth process and receive any important communications regarding benefits, it is crucial for families to keep their contact information up-to-date with both their child's school and their state's benefits agency.
