This post will provide a detailed guide to Summer 2023 P-EBT for Maryland. The Summer Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) has been a crucial federal food program that has provided support to families during the summer period of COVID-19 pandemic.
Even though the official COVID-19 health has ended, the federal government is still approving state Summer P-EBT benefits to eligible students.
The Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) in conjunction with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) have been working together to administer P-EBT benefits in the state for Summer 2023.
In this blog post, we will provide information about the 2023 Maryland Summer P-EBT benefits, including eligibility criteria, application process, distribution timeline, and the amount of benefits. Let’s dive in!
What is P-EBT?
The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program was established by Congress in 2020 to assist families in purchasing food while schools and child care facilities were closed due to the pandemic.
P-EBT provides funds to households with children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
Summer 2023 P-EBT for Maryland
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved Maryland’s Summer 2023 P-EBT State plan for school-age children.
This means that eligible families will continue to receive P-EBT benefits during the summer months.
Who is Eligible for 2023 Maryland Summer P-EBT Benefits?
To be eligible for the 2023 Maryland Summer P-EBT benefits, your child must be eligible to receive Free and Reduced Price Meals (FARMS) during the last month of the School Year 2022-2023 (June).
Additionally, children who were not eligible for FARMS during the school year may still receive P-EBT benefits if they submit a school meal application and are determined eligible before July 15, 2023.
This ensures that eligible children receive the support they need during the summer.
When will 2023 Maryland P-EBT Benefits be Distributed?
The 2023 Maryland Summer P-EBT benefits will be distributed in two installments.
The first installment of $60 will be issued in July 2023, and the second installment of $60 will be issued in August 2023.
These benefits will be automatically loaded onto the P-EBT cards
How Much will my Child Receive in Summer 2023 P-EBT Benefits?
This year, the Summer P-EBT benefits have been set at $120 by the U.S. Congress.
The benefits will be distributed in two installments of $60 each.
These funds are intended to help families purchase food and meet their nutritional needs during the summer months.
2023 Maryland Summer P-EBT Benefits FAQs
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Summer 2023 P-EBT for Maryland:
Do I need to apply for Summer P-EBT for 2023?
No, eligible families do not need to apply for the 2023 Maryland Summer P-EBT benefits.
Students who were eligible for free or reduced-price meals during the 2022-2023 school year and were enrolled during the last calendar month of the school year will automatically receive the Summer P-EBT benefits.
What should I do if I lose my P-EBT card?
If you lose your P-EBT card, you can obtain a new card by calling the Maryland EBT Customer Service at 1-800-997-2222 or visiting ConnectEBT.com.
Provide the necessary details, such as the child’s name, date of birth, last four digits of the social security number, and the address for mailing the new card.
It typically takes 7-10 business days to receive a replacement card.
Why are Summer P-EBT benefits lower this year compared to the last few summers?
The U.S. Congress has set this year’s Summer P-EBT benefits at $120, distributed in two installments of $60 each.
What should I do if my child is eligible for P-EBT benefits, but I did not receive any communication from DHS regarding my benefits?
If you did not receive any communication regarding your P-EBT benefits, direct your questions or concerns to the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) through the Customer Inquiry Form.
The DHS has a dedicated team working to respond to each inquiry submitted.
What should I do if someone fraudulently used my P-EBT benefits?
If you suspect fraudulent activity or unauthorized use of your P-EBT benefits, it is essential to report it immediately.
Contact 1-800-997-2222 to report the card lost or stolen. Once reported, you will receive a new card in the mail.
Remember to create a new 4-digit pin (different from the last one) once you receive the new card.
Unfortunately, P-EBT benefits cannot be replaced.
How do I check my Maryland P-EBT Card Balance?
Call the P-EBT Helpline at 1-800-997-2222 (M-F from 6am to 8pm) to check your balance.
Can I get Food Stamps if my children are getting P-EBT?
Yes. If you received P-EBT, you may be eligible for SNAP!
However, you have to meet the eligibility criteria, including the income limits.
Also, to keep your benefits, you have to continue to meet the eligibility requirements.
Below is the income limit and amount of food stamps benefits you may receive based on your household size.
| Pennsylvania SNAP Income Eligibility Standards for Fiscal Year 2023 | ||
| Effective October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023 | ||
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income (200% of FPL) | Monthly Net Income (100% of FPL) |
| 1 | $2,266 | $1,133 |
| 2 | $3,052 | $1,526 |
| 3 | $3,839 | $1,920 |
| 4 | $4,625 | $2,313 |
| 5 | $5,412 | $2,706 |
| 6 | $6,199 | $3,100 |
| 7 | $6,985 | $3,493 |
| 8 | $7,772 | $3,886 |
| Each Additional Household Member: Add | $787 | $394 |
Summary – Summer 2023 P-EBT for Maryland
Here’s the bottom line about the 2023 Maryland Summer P-EBT Benefits:
The Summer Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) has been a crucial federal food program that has provided support to families during the summer period of COVID-19 pandemic.
To be eligible for the 2023 Maryland Summer P-EBT benefits, your child must be eligible to receive Free and Reduced Price Meals (FARMS) during the last month of the School Year 2022-2023 (June).
Additionally, there is no need for families to apply as the benefits will be automatically issued based on eligibility criteria.
Furthermore, if you have any questions or concerns, the Maryland Department of Human Services (DHS) is ready to assist you.
Ultimately, by ensuring families receive the necessary support, we can create a healthier and more prosperous summer for everyone involved.
Questions?
We hope this post on the Summer 2023 P-EBT for Maryland was helpful.
If you have further questions about Maryland P-EBT benefits, please let us know in the comments section below.
In the meantime, be sure to check out our other articles on SNAP EBT and Food Stamps: