The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program aims to provide eligible families with financial assistance to purchase food for children who would normally receive free or reduced-price meals at school. The program was introduced to help alleviate the financial burden many families faced during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Eligibility Criteria for P-EBT
To qualify for P-EBT benefits, families must meet certain criteria set by the program. Eligibility is determined based on factors such as the child’s enrollment in the National School Lunch Program, closure of schools due to the pandemic, and income levels of the household. Some key eligibility criteria include:
- Children must be eligible for free or reduced-price meals at school
- Children must be enrolled in schools that participated in the National School Lunch Program
- Schools must have been closed or operating with reduced attendance due to COVID-19
How P-EBT Benefits are Calculated
The amount of P-EBT benefits a family receives is calculated based on various factors, including the number of days schools were closed, the child’s eligibility for free or reduced-price meals, and the state’s method of distribution. Each state has its own formula for calculating benefit amounts, but generally, families receive a set amount per day that schools were closed due to the pandemic.
Using P-EBT Benefits
Once families receive their P-EBT benefits, they can use them to purchase eligible food items at authorized retailers, including grocery stores and farmers’ markets. Families can use their P-EBT cards similar to a debit card, swiping it at the point of purchase and entering a PIN to complete the transaction.
Expiration of P-EBT Benefits
It’s important to note that P-EBT benefits do expire, so families should use them before the expiration date to ensure they receive the full benefit amount. The expiration date is usually provided on the P-EBT card or in the program’s guidelines. Unused benefits will not roll over to the next month.
Additional Resources for P-EBT Recipients
For families receiving P-EBT benefits, there are additional resources and programs available to help stretch their food budget further. Some states offer nutrition education programs, meal assistance programs, and other resources to support families in need. Families can contact their state’s P-EBT office for more information on available resources.
In conclusion, the P-EBT program serves as a critical lifeline for families struggling to put food on the table during the pandemic. By providing financial assistance to purchase food for children who would normally receive free or reduced-price meals at school, the program helps alleviate the financial burden many families face. Understanding the eligibility criteria, benefit calculation, and how to use P-EBT benefits is essential for families to make the most of this valuable resource.