Summer EBT Update

Get ready for Summer EBT 2026

For the most up-to-date information about S-EBT go to the CDHS website – cdhs.colorado.gov/summer-ebt.

Summer EBT is returning this year! Take these steps to make sure you get your benefits:

• Already have a Summer EBT card from last summer? Keep it! CDHS may put this year’s money on your existing card.
• If you are on SNAP, Colorado Works, Medicaid, make sure your mailing address is up to date through PEAK or your county office. CDHS will use that contact information for Summer EBT.

Benefits will begin being issued in late May 2026.

Enrollment Information 

Find out if your child is automatically enrolled or needs to apply

Most eligible children will be automatically enrolled in Summer EBT. Some children may need to apply. Review the information to below to learn more!

Go to Co.gov/sebtenrollment to check your enrollment status.

Your child may be automatically enrolled if they: 

• Are attending a school participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) AND:
  • Are approved for free or reduced-price meals
  • Are receiving benefits from the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Colorado Works (TANF), or Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR)
  • Are receiving Medicaid AND meet the income guidelines for NSLP
• Are a student in foster care, experiencing homelessness, or a migrant

A child who is not automatically enrolled should apply for Summer EBT if they: 

• Are in a household that is NOT automatically enrolled for Summer EBT AND:
  • Attend a school that participates in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP)
  • Have a household income at or below 185% of the federal poverty guidelines

Summer EBT Online Portal 

Manage your Summer EBT account instantly. Go to Co.gov/sebtportal.

• Update your mailing address
• Request a new card
• Check your application status
• See which children are approved

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is Summer EBT?

Summer EBT (also called SUN BUCKS) is a program that helps families buy healthy food while their kids are on summer break.

Here is how it works:

• You get a one-time amount of $120 for each eligible child.
• The money comes on a Summer EBT card.
• You can use the card to buy food at most grocery stores or farmers markets.

Where do I find the application? 

You can check to see if you are automatically enrolled or apply for Summer EBT benefits on the CDHS website here: https://cdhs.colorado.gov/summer-ebt 

How will I receive my Summer EBT benefits?

Eligible students will receive a letter in the mail indicating that they will be receiving the benefit. If you child already has a Summer EBT card and is eligible again this summer, $120 should be added to their existing card at the end of May. For new participants, cards will be mailed to the address the Summer EBT program has on file for your child. New cards can take 30-45 days to arrive. You can use the card to buy groceries at the store. You will get a separate card for each approved child in your household.

Contact

Email

For general questions about the program, email CDHS at cdhs_sebt_supportcenter@state.co.us and be prepared to provide the following information:

• Parent/guardian Name: Frist and last name
• Child’s Information: First name, last name, and Date of Birth (Please use the exact name that is on their school record, even if it is a nickname).
• Your Phone Number.

EBT Card Services 

Call 888.328.2656 to set your PIN, check your balance, or report a lost or stolen card.