This post will provide a detailed guide to Summer 2023 P-EBT for New Jersey. 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 New Jersey Department of Human Services (DHS) administers the P-EBT benefits in the state for Summer 2023.
In this blog post, we will provide information about the 2023 New Jersey 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 childcare 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 New Jersey
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved New Jersey’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 New Jersey Summer P-EBT Benefits?
To be eligible for the 2023 New Jersey Summer P-EBT benefits, children must be:
- Eligible for free or reduced-price school meals under National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) as a student in grades K-12: or,
- Determined newly eligible for free or reduced-price school meals during the covered summer period (not including incoming Kindergarten students in the 2023-2024 school year); or,
- Attending a school that participates in the Community Eligibility Provision.
When will 2023 New Jersey P-EBT Benefits be Distributed?
The exact distribution date for the 2023 New Jersey Summer P-EBT benefits depends on when your child’s school submits their data.
Schools can begin submitting information as early as June, and the first payments may arrive at the end of June 2023.
The distribution of all summer P-EBT benefits is expected to be completed by the end of September 2023.
How Much will my Child Receive in Summer 2023 P-EBT Benefits?
For the 2023 Summer P-EBT program, eligible students will receive a one-time standard benefit amount of $120 per child.
This amount covers the entire summer period and will be issued as a lump sum payment.
2023 New Jersey Summer P-EBT Benefits FAQs
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Summer 2023 P-EBT for New Jersey:
Do I need to apply for Summer P-EBT for 2023?
No, eligible families do not need to apply for the 2023 New Jersey 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.
How do I activate my P-EBT Card?
To activate your P-EBT card, refer to the instructions included in the envelope with your card. If you encounter any issues, call the number provided on the back of your P-EBT card.
Can I check my P-EBT card balance?
Yes, you can check your P-EBT card balance by creating an account on NJFamiliesFirst.com or by downloading the ConnectEBT app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store. You can also check your balance using the automated phone system by calling 1-800-997-3333 or by referring to your last store receipt.
How do I use my P-EBT card to purchase food?
Your P-EBT card can be used at any store that accepts SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program). Look for the SNAP EBT image at the store or visit the “Using Your Benefits” page for a list of participating stores. Simply slide your card through the payment machine, choose the FOOD option, enter your PIN, and select eligible SNAP food items.
What should I do if I forgot my PIN?
If you forget your PIN but still have your card, you can change your PIN online.
To do so, visit NJFamiliesFirst.com after creating a user account.
Alternatively, you can call 1-800-997-3333 for assistance.
How do I request a replacement P-EBT card?
If your P-EBT card is lost, stolen, or damaged, report it immediately online at NJFamiliesFirst.com or by calling 1-800-997-3333.
After reporting it, contact your local county board of social services for a replacement card. Please note that there may be a fee for replacement cards.
These are just a few of the frequently asked questions about the 2023 New Jersey Summer P-EBT benefits.
For more detailed information and additional questions, you can visit the official P-EBT website.
Additionally, you can contact the P-EBT hotline at 1-833-581-2214.
Can I get Food Stamps if my children are getting P-EBT?
Yes. If you received P-EBT, you may be eligible for SNAP!
Below is the income limit and amount of food stamps benefits you may receive based on your household size.
| New Jersey SNAP Income Eligibility Standards for Fiscal Year 2023 | ||
| Effective October 1, 2022 – September 30, 2023 | ||
| Household Size | Monthly Gross Income (185% of FPL) | Monthly Net Income (100% of FPL) |
| 1 | $2,095 | $1,133 |
| 2 | $2,823 | $1,526 |
| 3 | $3,550 | $1,920 |
| 4 | $4,278 | $2,313 |
| 5 | $5,006 | $2,706 |
| 6 | $5,733 | $3,100 |
| 7 | $6,461 | $3,493 |
| 8 | $7,189 | $3,886 |
| Each Additional Household Member: Add | $727 | $394 |
Summary – Summer 2023 P-EBT for New Jersey
Here’s the bottom line about the 2023 New Jersey Summer P-EBT Benefits:
The 2023 New Jersey Summer P-EBT benefits aim to provide additional support to families with school-age children during the summer months.
Eligible households do not need to apply for these benefits as they will be automatically distributed to students who meet the eligibility criteria.
The set benefit amount of $120 per eligible child will help alleviate some of the financial burdens associated with providing food during the summer.
For more information or assistance, households can contact the P-EBT Helpline or visit the CDSS P-EBT website.
Questions?
We hope this post on the Summer 2023 P-EBT for New Jersey was helpful.
If you have further questions about New Jersey 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: