If you have received P-EBT benefits, it is likely because your child qualifies for free or reduced-price school meals. The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program was implemented to assist families with the cost of meals while school buildings were closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The benefits are provided to help with the nutritional needs of eligible children who were not able to receive meals at school.
Qualifying for Free or Reduced-Price School Meals
To determine eligibility for P-EBT benefits, the criteria used is similar to that of the free or reduced-price school meals program. Families must meet certain income requirements to qualify for free or reduced-price meals at school, and this information is used to determine eligibility for P-EBT benefits. Below are the income limits for free and reduced-price meals:
- For free meals: Income is at or below 130% of the federal poverty level
- For reduced-price meals: Income is between 130% and 185% of the federal poverty level
| Household Size | 130% Poverty Level | 185% Poverty Level |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $16,744 | $23,828 |
| 2 | $22,646 | $32,227 |
| 3 | $28,548 | $40,626 |
Enrollment in School Meal Programs
Another reason why you may have received P-EBT benefits is if your child is enrolled in a school meal program. Schools that participate in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program automatically provide information to the state agency responsible for issuing P-EBT benefits. This information is used to determine eligibility and distribute benefits to eligible families.
Changes in School Operations
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many schools had to switch to remote or hybrid learning models, resulting in children not receiving meals at school as they normally would. To address this issue, the P-EBT program was established to provide financial assistance to families to help cover the cost of meals that children were missing out on due to changes in school operations.
State Implementation of P-EBT
Each state is responsible for implementing the P-EBT program, which means that eligibility criteria and distribution methods may vary from state to state. Some states automatically enroll eligible families based on information from school meal programs, while others may require families to apply for benefits. It is important to check with your state’s agency responsible for P-EBT to understand how the program operates in your area.
Extension of P-EBT Benefits
Initially, P-EBT benefits were provided for a limited period of time to cover the duration of school closures during the pandemic. However, the program has been extended in some states to continue providing assistance to families even as schools begin to reopen. It is important to stay informed about any updates or changes to the P-EBT program in your state to ensure you receive the benefits you are eligible for.
In conclusion, if you have received P-EBT benefits, it is likely because your child qualifies for free or reduced-price school meals, or is enrolled in a school meal program. The P-EBT program was established to support families during the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that children have access to the nutrition they need, even when school operations are disrupted. Make sure to stay informed about the program and its eligibility criteria to take advantage of the benefits available to you.