New York SUN Bucks 2026 (Summer EBT)
SUN Bucks provides $120 per eligible school-age child for groceries during summer months when school meals stop. New York families with kids on free/reduced school lunch are typically auto-enrolled. Administered by New York myBenefits (OTDA).
→ New York state portalHow New York SUN Bucks works
- Amount: $120 per eligible child for summer 2026 (June-August)
- How received: Loaded onto existing EBT card (if family has SNAP) OR a new SUN Bucks card mailed to family
- Spend on: Groceries at SNAP-authorized retailers (no hot food, no restaurants — same rules as SNAP)
- Eligibility: School-age kids 5-18 enrolled in free/reduced-price school meals during the 2025-26 academic year
- Auto-enrollment: New York usually auto-enrolls based on school meal data; no separate application needed for most families
How New York families apply
- If your child gets free/reduced school meals — likely auto-enrolled
- If not auto-enrolled: apply through https://mybenefits.ny.gov/ or call 1-800-342-3009
- Cards mail in late May / early June — watch your mail
- If you don't receive a card by mid-June, call 1-800-342-3009
What if my state opted out?
- Find summer meal sites near me — federal Summer Food Service Program at thousands of free-meal sites
- Apply for regular New York SNAP — covers the whole family year-round
- Use New York food pantries for groceries
- WIC for kids under 5
Frequently asked questions
When do SUN Bucks deposit in New York?
Most states deposit either in 3 monthly $40 chunks (June, July, August) or one $120 lump sum in early June. New York myBenefits (OTDA) confirms the exact schedule.
Can my kids use SUN Bucks at restaurants?
No — same rules as SNAP. Groceries only. Some farmers markets accept it.
What if I lost the SUN Bucks card?
Call 1-800-342-3009 to report. Replacement card mails in 7-10 business days.
Do older teens (16-18) qualify?
Yes if enrolled in free/reduced-price school meals during 2025-26 academic year, in most states.
Related New York resources
- Summer meals near me (free in-person)
- New York school meals
- New York SNAP application
- New York food pantries
- New York WIC offices
Page operated by Feed America (EIN 92-1761881), 501(c)(3) public charity. Founded 2021 by Sharika Parkes in Houston, TX. Distinct from the larger separately-incorporated Feeding America (EIN 36-3673599, Chicago) — separate organization. New York SUN Bucks administered by New York myBenefits (OTDA).