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SUN Bucks

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What is Sun Bucks?

SUN Bucks, also known as Summer EBT, helps families in California buy food during the summer months when school is closed. Eligible children receive $120 per child in SUN Bucks benefits to help cover the cost of groceries.
SUN Bucks works like CalFresh, and benefits are issued on an EBT card mailed to the home address on file.

Who is eligible for Sun Bucks? 

Children may qualify for SUN Bucks if any of the following are true:

  • They receive CalFresh, CalWORKs, or qualifying Medi-Cal benefits;
  • They are identified through their school as foster, homeless, migrant, or runaway; or
  • They meet household income requirements.

Families who think they may qualify are encouraged to complete a Universal Benefits Application (UBA). The UBA helps determine eligibility for SUN Bucks based on household size and income.

How do I apply?

Families can complete the Universal Benefits Application online.

Apply here: Natomas Universal Benefit Application

Please submit one Universal Benefits Application per household.
If you need assistance accessing or completing the application, please visit the Natomas USD Welcome Center at 1931 Arena Blvd., Sacramento, CA 95834, or call 916-567-5454.

Application Deadline

  • Applications must be submitted by August 31, 2026, to be considered for 2026 SUN Bucks benefits.
  •  
  • Applications submitted on or after September 1, 2026, will only be considered for 2027 SUN Bucks benefits.

Important Reminders

  • In California, all students can receive school meals at no cost, but that does not automatically mean every child qualifies for SUN Bucks.

  • Submitting an application will not affect your immigration status or your child’s ability to receive school meals at no cost.

California SUN Bucks Helpline

For questions about SUN Bucks eligibility, benefit status, EBT cards, or benefit issuance, please contact the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) SUN Bucks Helpline:
877-328-9677
More information about SUN Bucks is available at: https://www.cdss.ca.gov/sun-bucks