All SNAP recipients in California may have their CalFresh payments in August. Remember that they run from 1 to 10. Some SUN Bucks may be on the way according to the payment plan.
In fact, most eligible children do not need to apply for SUN Bucks program in CaliforniaHowever, some people who do not receive CalFersh (SNAP) or similar benefits may need to apply.
What is the difference between SNAP payments and SUN Bucks in California?
GRAB offers all year round Help with grocery shoppingwhile SUN Bucks Fillings Summer food gaps for students. Children can qualify for both programs simultaneously. Each initiative has unique eligibility criteria, benefit levels, and payment schedules. SNAP’s ongoing support contrasts with SUN Bucks’ seasonal focus, yet both aim to alleviate food insecurity. Their different rules and schedules take into account different needs within the community.
Purpose:
- SNAP (CalFresh in California) is a general food assistance program for low-income households.
- SUN Bucks is a summer food drive specifically for eligible school-age children.
Eligibility:
- SNAP is subject to income and other eligibility requirements.
- Children automatically receive SUN Bucks if their household receives SNAP, TANF, FDPIR, or Medi-Cal or is eligible for free or reduced-price school meals. Some families may need to apply.
Benefit amount:
- The amount of SNAP benefits varies depending on household size and income.
- SUN Bucks provides a standard $120 per eligible child for the summer.
Distribution:
- SNAP benefits are loaded onto an EBT card each month.
- SUN Bucks will be distributed incrementally over the course of the summer through a separate SUN Bucks EBT card mailed to each eligible child.
Timing:
- SNAP benefits are paid monthly.
- SUN Bucks are a one-time summer payment; cards are sent between June and August based on the child’s last name.
SNAP paydays are over in August, but not SUN Bucks
According to the California Department of Social Services SUN Bucks Card Shipping Schedules Payments may be made in August. FYI, those who are in Tier 1 because they were automatically qualified will receive a $120 payment from mid-June through August.
SUN Buck Cardssimilar to how CalFResh (SNAP) EBT cards work, were and will be mailed in alphabetical order. Those whose child’s last name begins with AD or EL must have received their SUN Buck card in June or July, respectively.
Some Level 1 recipients may still SUN Bucks until August if your last name begins with the letter MZ. If you are not on the State 1 payment plan, see below for more information. Remember, you can still submit a school meal application or alternative income form before August 31, 2024.
If you do not qualify for SNAP, you can receive SUN Bucks in Tier 2
Phase 2 is for children who were not automatically enrolled in Phase 1 and whose eligibility was determined after Phase 1 began. For example, they were not eligible for CalFresh but are now eligible for SNAP benefits.
Others may not receive SNAP but have filed alternate income forms. Or they may have filed school lunch applications. It doesn’t matter when you apply or when you become eligible.
In fact, the full amount will be credited to your SUN Bucks card, a total of $120. The California Department of Social Services recommends spending SUN Bucks before claiming SNAP or CalFresh benefits.
