California’s Summer EBT program, known as SUN Bucks, is returning in 2025. This food program provides families $40 per month for food in June, July, and August ($120 total) when children do not have access to school meals. SUN Bucks benefits must be used within 122 days of funds being loaded to the EBT card. Any unused money on the EBT card after 122 days will expire and expired benefits cannot be replaced.
Most children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals through a school meal application or Universal Benefits Application, or get CalFresh, CalWORKs, and/or Medi-Cal, are automatically enrolled. Children in foster care, experiencing homelessness, attending Head Start, and/or are considered a runaway are also categorically eligible and are automatically enrolled. Some children may need to sign up. Participating in SUN Bucks does not affect a family’s immigration status. Visit the FAQs page for more information.
For more information, you can visit https://www.cdss.ca.gov/sun-bucks. For cardholder assistance, the SUN Bucks helpline is available at (877) 328-9677. The helpline provides automated support 24 hours a day, seven days per week. Live agents are available Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. – 8 p.m. To check your benefit balance and claim status, visit the California EBT cardholder website.