This post will provide a detailed guide to Summer 2023 P-EBT for Washington, DC. 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 D.C. Department of Human Services (DHS), together with the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) 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 Washington, DC Summer P-EBT benefits.
Additionally, we will explain the eligibility criteria, application process, distribution timeline, and the amount of benefits.
Lastly, we will answer the most frequently asked questions about Summer 2023 P-EBT for Washington DC.
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 Washington, DC
The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has approved Washington, DC’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 Washington, DC Summer P-EBT Benefits?
The eligibility criteria for the 2023 District of Columbia Summer P-EBT Benefits have evolved based on changes in federal law.
Specifically, SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) eligible children under the age of 6 who were enrolled in childcare during the 2022-2023 school year are eligible to receive these benefits.
It’s important to note that the District will not be issuing Summer P-EBT for children in child care due to the end of the Public Health Emergency (PHE) on May 11, 2023.
This change in eligibility is due to the altered circumstances and the evolving needs of families.
For school students over the age of six, eligibility is determined by enrollment in a Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) School or a school participating in the National School Lunch Program (NSLP).
Students who were approved for Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FARM) or are categorically approved for such meals are eligible for Summer 2023 P-EBT benefits.
When will 2023 Washington, DC P-EBT Benefits be Distributed?
The benefits will be provided as a one-time payment of $120.00 in July 2023.
Please note that due to a high volume of cards being issued, new cards issued over the summer may be delayed.
How Much will my Child Receive in Summer 2023 P-EBT Benefits?
The amount of Summer 2023 P-EBT benefits has been set at $120.00 per eligible student.
This benefit amount is designed to provide families with additional support during the summer.
This will ensure that children have access to nutritious meals even when school is not in session.
2023 Washington, DC Summer P-EBT Benefits FAQs
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Summer 2023 P-EBT for Washington, DC:
Do I need to apply for Summer P-EBT for 2023?
One of the convenient aspects of the P-EBT program is that there is no separate application required.
Children who meet the eligibility criteria will automatically receive P-EBT benefits.
Families with children under 6 who were SNAP recipients will receive benefits between August 2022 and May 11, 2023.
For children over the age of six, if they experience a change in income, families can apply for Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FARM) for the Summer of 2023 before June 30, 2023.
If approved by the child’s school by July 15, 2023, they will receive Summer P-EBT benefits before September 30, 2023.
What are Pandemic EBT (P-EBT) benefits?
P-EBT benefits are temporary emergency nutrition benefits designed to supplement school meals missed due to pandemic-related school closures or reduced schedules.
Who is eligible for P-EBT benefits?
Eligibility varies based on school year and specific circumstances.
Children under six years old who were SNAP recipients during the payment coverage period are eligible for School Year 2022-2023 benefits.
How much are P-EBT benefits?
For School Year 2022-2023, the monthly benefit is $50.36, resulting in a total payment of $478.42 for eligible children receiving benefits for all months.
Summer 2023 benefits are a one-time payment of $120.00.
How will I be notified if I receive P-EBT benefits?
Benefit notices will be mailed to the address on the child’s P-EBT record.
Balances can also be checked by calling (888) 304-9167 or using the ebtEDGE online platform.
Can I apply for P-EBT benefits?
No separate application process is necessary. Eligibility is automatically determined based on enrollment and participation in Free and Reduced-Price Meals (FARM).
How do I access P-EBT benefits?
P-EBT benefits are accessed through an EBT card, similar to SNAP benefits. Eligible families currently receiving SNAP benefits or previously issued P-EBT cards will have benefits loaded onto their existing EBT card.
How do I activate or reset the PIN on my P-EBT card?
To activate or reset the PIN on your P-EBT card, you can call FIS at (888) 304-9167 and follow the provided instructions.
What can I purchase with P-EBT benefits?
P-EBT benefits can be used to purchase eligible food items, including fruits, vegetables, meat, poultry, fish, dairy products, bread, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Where can P-EBT benefits be used?
P-EBT benefits can be used at any store that accepts SNAP.
An online option is also available at approved retailers, such as Amazon, Aldi, and Walmart.
Do I have to use all the P-EBT funds in the month that benefits are issued?
No, P-EBT funds can carry over from month to month.
However, benefits that remain unused for 274 days may be expunged from the card.
How do I check my Washington, DC P-EBT Card Balance?
Call the P-EBT Helpline at (888) 304-9167 (M-F from 6 am to 8 pm) to check your balance.
Summary – Summer 2023 P-EBT for Washington, DC
Here’s the bottom line about the 2023 Washington, DC Summer P-EBT Benefits:
The 2023 Washington, DC 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.
Questions?
We hope this post on the Summer 2023 P-EBT for Washington, DC was helpful.
If you have further questions about Washington, DC 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:
