Periodic Data Collection: Summer-EBT (S-EBT)

Overview

Summer EBT was established as a permanent, nationwide program by the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2023. The program aims to reduce summer hunger by providing families with a grocery benefit similar to SNAP to feed their children when school is not in session. It was first piloted in 2011 in select states and proved so successful at reducing food insecurity and improving diet quality that it was slowly expanded to additional states. The summer component of Pandemic EBT, which operated on a similar model as Summer EBT and took its place from school year 2021 through school year 2023, also proved successful in supporting families. Pandemic EBT ended in summer 2023, but beginning in 2024, all states and territories can participate in Summer EBT.

Deadlines  

• Summer 2025 Collection: Open February 3, 2025 to February 28, 2025
• Corrections Period: Open May 19, 2025 to September 3, 2025

File Layout and Definitions

• 2024-2025 S-EBT Data Collection File Layout and Definitions (PDF) 

Business Rules

• 2024-2025 S-EBT Business Rules (XLS) 

Training

• S-EBT Collection Training Manual (PDF)

Additional Resources

• S-EBT Data Collection FAQ (Google Doc Link) 
• CDE School Meal Eligibility Webpage
• S-EBT Office Hours Sign Up

Contacts

For questions contact the S-EBT General Email Box.