COLUMBUS, Ohio (AVC News) — Ohio has distributed nearly $118 million in Summer EBT benefits to more than 983,000 children so far this year, according to the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services.
ODJFS Director Matt Damschroder said the department distributed $117,970,680 in Summer EBT, also known as SUN Bucks, between May 29 and July 31.
The federal program provides eligible families with a one-time $120 benefit for each eligible school-aged child to help provide access to food while schools are closed for the summer.
Most benefits were automatically issued to families receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits, Ohio Works First cash assistance or income-eligible Medicaid benefits.
For families receiving SNAP, the Summer EBT benefits were loaded onto their Ohio Direction Cards. Families who received Summer EBT benefits in 2025 had their 2026 benefits loaded onto their existing cards, while new recipients receive benefit cards by mail.
The benefits can be used to purchase food at grocery stores, farmers’ markets and other authorized retailers.
Of the nearly $118 million distributed, approximately $85.6 million had been spent as of July 31.
ODJFS said families generally have 122 days from the date benefits are received to spend the funds.
The 2026 Summer EBT program closed as of Aug. 15.
Information about eligibility and applications is available through the Ohio Summer EBT program.
Current SNAP recipients can also use the ConnectEBT app or their online account for additional information.
Last Updated on August 18, 2026 by AVC News
