NYC families can apply for $120 per child in summer food benefits to fight food insecurity. (Representative Image, Getty Images)

For many families in New York City, free school meals through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) are an essential part of daily life. However, if you think these meals alone will help cover your child’s food needs during the summer, think again. The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program provides additional food benefits to low-income families—but your child may not automatically qualify just because they receive free meals at school.
Summer EBT offers up to $120 per child in food benefits, but families must apply to receive them. Despite the huge potential for aid, many New York families missed out on the benefits last year. According to a report by Chalkbeat, only 17,158 applications were submitted across the state, leaving millions of dollars in benefits unused. This year, New York State is aiming to reach more families and expand access to the program.
Who is eligible for Summer EBT?
While attending a school that offers free meals through CEP may make your child eligible for Summer EBT, it’s not enough. The program is available only to children who meet specific criteria. Families must either be automatically eligible or must apply for the benefits. Children must attend a school with free lunch options and meet the household income requirements for free or reduced-price school meals.
For example, a family of four would qualify if their income is at or below $57,720 annually. These requirements aim to help families facing food insecurity, especially during the summer when school meal programs are unavailable.
Application process
Eligible families must apply online to receive the Summer EBT benefits. The families who already receive other forms of government aid, such as SNAP, Temporary Assistance, or Medicaid, will automatically receive the benefits, with notifications sent out in the summer. However, many families need to fill out an application to access the $120 per child benefit.
Income Guidelines for Summer EBT applications*

* Summer EBT Income Eligibility Guidelines July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025
For those who missed the opportunity last year, New York State is offering a longer window for applications this year. Families can submit their applications until September 3, 2025.

Don’t miss out on the benefits
Advocates like Rachel Sabella, Director of No Kid Hungry New York, emphasize the importance of outreach to ensure families don’t miss out on the benefits. As quoted by Chalkbeat, Sabella noted that “this money makes a real difference when parents get to the register at a grocery store.” However, the success of the program depends on families being aware of the application process.
In summary, while free school meals are an essential support, they are not enough to guarantee Summer EBT benefits in New York City. Families must apply for the program, and with a deadline of September 3, 2025, it’s crucial not to wait. Apply today to ensure your family can access these critical food benefits this summer.