Your child is automatically eligible. You do not need to apply for benefits.

Your child is automatically enrolled in Summer EBT, so you do not need to apply. Summer EBT is a food benefit program that helps families buy food during the summer when school is not in session.

Each eligible child will receive this eligibility letter and a one-time Summer EBT benefit payment of $120 this summer, which you can use to buy food at grocery stores, farmers' markets, and other SNAP-authorized retailers.

The dates that Summer EBT benefits will be issued will be listed on the NYS Summer EBT website. OTDA will also send text messages when benefits are issued. You can always get the latest information on benefit issuance on the Summer EBT website.

Your child will be issued benefits on the same Summer EBT card used to access last year's Summer EBT benefit. Your child will not receive a new benefit card this year..

If you no longer have this Summer EBT card, you must order a replacement card to access your child's Summer EBT food benefits. Visit Summer EBT Card Replacement to learn how to order a replacement card.

To see when your child's Summer EBT benefits have been issued, keep track of your child's Summer EBT benefit balance, and freeze your card between purchases, visit www.ebtEDGE.com or download the ebtEDGE app. You will need your child's Summer EBT card information to create an account.

Once your child's Summer EBT benefits are issued, they will be available for 122 days. After 122 days, all unused benefits will expire and be removed from the card. Be sure to use your benefits soon after you receive them. Expired benefits cannot be restored.

Please keep your Summer EBT card — benefits will be loaded onto this card each summer that your child remains eligible for the program.

If you do not wish to participate in Summer EBT, call the Summer EBT customer service helpline at 1-833-452-0096 and request that your child be removed (opt-out) from the program.

If you receive more than $120 per eligible child in your household, do not use the benefits, and contact the Summer EBT customer service helpline as soon as possible to confirm or correct the error.

Receiving Summer EBT will not affect children's or families' immigration status.

In addition to Summer EBT, children 18 years of age and younger in your household can also receive free meals during the summer at a summer meal site. You can call 1-866-3-HUNGRY or 1-877-8-HAMBRE to find the location closest to you.

To learn more about Summer EBT, including information on eligibility, benefit issuance, where Summer EBT benefits are accepted, the Non-Discrimination Statement, and more, visit the Summer EBT website or call the Summer EBT customer service helpline at 1-833-452-0096.