Will CalFresh households get P-EBT benefits in summer 2024?

From what I understand, P-EBT was specifically a pandemic emergency benefit and is not currently scheduled to return for summer 2024. California's regular Summer EBT program is different and still in planning stages. The state has opted into the permanent Summer EBT program, but implementation details haven't been fully announced yet. If you're already on CalFresh, you should watch for notices about Summer EBT eligibility - it's not automatic like P-EBT was.

my neighbor who works at the school said p-ebt cards were coming again but maybe shes talking about that summer ebt thing instead?? its so confusing when they keep changing the names of these programs lol

I'VE BEEN TRYING TO FIGURE THIS OUT TOO!! So frustrating that they don't clearly communicate about these benefits that families NEED TO SURVIVE. My kids' school sent home some flyer about "summer food programs" but it was just about those lunch sites where you have to physically go every day - IMPOSSIBLE if you're working!!! The whole point of P-EBT was that it helped working parents provide food without having to take kids somewhere every single day! Why can't they just make these programs PERMANENT instead of yanking help away from hungry kids??!!

P-EBT was specifically authorized as a pandemic response program, but California has opted into the new permanent Summer EBT program. The state is still finalizing implementation details for Summer 2024, but they've committed to participating. For eligible families, benefits should be around $120 per child for the summer period, but the exact amount and distribution method are still being worked out. The eligibility will likely be similar to free/reduced school meals qualification. Your best sources for updates are: 1. BenefitsCal website announcements 2. CDSS official communications 3. Your county CalFresh office They should be announcing more concrete details about Summer EBT within the next 1-2 months as we get closer to summer.

Based on preliminary information, if your children already receive free or reduced-price school meals or your household receives CalFresh, you'll likely be automatically eligible for Summer EBT without a separate application. However, implementation details are still being finalized, so this could change. I'd recommend calling your county CalFresh office directly in early May to get the most up-to-date information. Unfortunately, their phone lines are often extremely busy.

That service sounds helpful! I'll check it out if I need to call in May. Has anyone heard anything new from their kids' schools about Summer EBT? My children's school hasn't sent anything home yet.

i just remembered that last time they gave out p-ebt it came super late like months after they said it would. so even if they do summer ebt this year maybe dont count on it coming right when school ends?

Just to clarify a few things about Summer EBT since there seems to be some confusion: 1. It's a new permanent program, not the same as P-EBT 2. California has opted in, but implementation is still in progress 3. Eligible children will likely receive about $120 total for summer 2024 4. Most CalFresh households with school-age children should qualify automatically 5. The state must develop an implementation plan, so timing and details are still being finalized The best thing to do is stay informed through official channels and prepare alternative food budgeting plans just in case the benefits are delayed or eligibility requirements change.

Has anyone actually CONFIRMED with their county worker that this Summer EBT is happening FOR SURE? I don't want to get my hopes up again. Last time I called my county about a benefits question, they gave me completely WRONG information and I ended up with a gap in coverage!!