Everything You Need to Know About P-EBT Information for 2021
Introduction
The Pandemic Electronic Benefits Transfer (P-EBT) program was introduced last year in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to provide food assistance benefits to children who were missing out on free and reduced-price school meals due to school closures. The program has been extended for 2021, with some changes in eligibility and benefits. This article will provide you with all the information you need to know about P-EBT for 2021.
What is P-EBT?
P-EBT is a federal program that provides food assistance benefits to eligible children who would have received free or reduced-price school meals if their schools were open. The benefits are provided on an EBT card, which can be used to buy food at authorized retailers. The program is administered by the state agencies that are responsible for the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program.
Who is eligible for P-EBT for 2021?
The eligibility criteria for P-EBT for 2021 is different from last year. The program is now available to all children who are eligible for free or reduced-price school meals under the National School Lunch Program or the School Breakfast Program, regardless of whether their school is open or closed. This includes children who are attending school in-person, as well as those who are attending remotely or through a hybrid model.
How much are the benefits?
The amount of P-EBT benefits for 2021 depends on the number of school days that were missed by each child due to school closures or virtual learning. The benefits will be prorated on a daily basis, with a maximum monthly benefit of $119 per child. The benefits will be provided retroactively for the 2020-2021 school year, and will be issued in two rounds.
When and how will the benefits be issued?
The first round of P-EBT benefits for 2021 will be issued in March 2021, and will cover the period from September 2020 through December 2020. The second round of benefits will be issued in the summer, and will cover the period from January 2021 through June 2021. The benefits will be issued automatically to eligible children, and no application is required. The EBT card will be mailed to the child’s household address, and the benefits will be loaded onto the card each month.
What can the benefits be used for?
P-EBT benefits can be used to buy food at authorized retailers, including grocery stores, supermarkets, and farmers’ markets. The benefits cannot be used to buy non-food items, such as household supplies, toiletries, or pet food.
Conclusion
P-EBT is an important program that provides food assistance benefits to eligible children who are missing out on free or reduced-price school meals due to school closures. The program has been extended for 2021, with changes in eligibility and benefits. If you think you or someone you know may be eligible for P-EBT, it’s important to apply and take advantage of this program to ensure that children have access to nutritious meals.
