Summer EBT Application Fact Sheet 2024

What is Summer EBT? The Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) program is a federally-funded initiative that helps families buy food for their school-aged children during the summer months when school meals are unavailable. Families who qualify will receive a one-time lump sum of $120 for each eligible child. How does Summer EBT Work in Tennessee? In Tennessee, the Department of Human Services (TDHS) utilizes records from state agencies and school districts to provide nutrition benefits to eligible children. Like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), benefits are distributed through EBT cards that can be used to purchase groceries at stores and online vendors where SNAP is accepted. Benefits expire 122 days after a card is issued. Who Qualifies for Summer EBT in Tennessee? • School-age children who participated in SNAP, Families First (TANF), TennCare (Medicaid) during the 2023-24 academic year are automatically eligible to receive Summer EBT. These families do not need to apply for Summer EBT. • Students who applied and were approved for free or reduced-price meals at a National School Lunch Program (NSLP) participating school during the 2023/24 academic year are automatically eligible for Summer EBT. These families do not need to apply for Summer EBT. • Children who are not automatically enrolled or NSLP participants, but attended a school that offered the NSLP or School Breakfast Program may qualify for Summer EBT based on income guidelines, but must apply for benefits. Note: Participation in Summer EBT does not affect a child’s immigration status or prevent participation in other nutrition assistance programs administered by a government agency.

Who Should Apply for Summer EBT Most children who are eligible for Summer EBT will be automatically enrolled and do not need to apply to receive benefits. Families who are not automatically enrolled and did not participate in the NSLP for the 2023/24 school year can apply to receive Summer EBT. Benefit approval will be based on income guidelines. How to Submit an Application Tennessee parents can apply to for Summer EBT via the Parent Portal at www.OneDHS.TN.Gov or by calling 833-772-8347. Note: Parents who have an existing One DHS Account can use their current credentials to log into the Parent Portal. When Will Benefits Be Distributed? In June 2024, eligible children will receive Summer EBT cards at their address according to state records. Tennessee parents should log into the Parent Portal as soon as possible to confirm that their child’s address is correct to receive their card. For parents that must apply, benefits will be distributed within 15 days of approval