Pandemic EBT

P-EBT FAQ

• Q: How do I know if I'm eligible for P-EBT?
  A: If your child receives free or reduced-price school meals, or your child attends a school that offers free school meals to all students, then you are eligible to receive P-EBT benefits. Families who have lost their job or wages may now be eligible. Learn more on your state’s resource page (see below).
• Q: How much money will I receive?
  A: You will receive about $5.70 for each child, for each day that school is closed due to the pandemic. This adds up to $114 per child for four weeks.
• Q: How will I receive the money?
  A: This depends on the state you live in. Please check your state’s resource page for more information.
• Q: When will I receive the benefits?
  A: This depends on the state you live in. Please check your state’s resource page for more information.
• Q: Will this affect my ability to receive other benefits?
  A: No, it will not.
• Q: Does this count against me under public charge?
  A: No, it does not. Using P-EBT benefits does not impact you or your child’s immigration status. The public charge rule does not apply to P-EBT benefits.
• Q: How long will I receive these benefits for?
  A: This will depend on how your state issues benefits.
• Q: Will I receive benefits for the days my kids have been out of school already?
  A: Yes, the benefits are retroactive to the average date schools closed in your state. Check your state’s resource page for more information.
• Q: Does P-EBT replace grab and go meal sites?
  A: No. P-EBT benefits supplement grab and go student meal sites. They do not replace them. You can find a meal site in your community through USDA’s Meals 4 Kids Site Finder.