[CA] CALPADS FLASH #284: S-EBT / Sun BUCKS Program Update

This update provides crucial information regarding the Summer Electronic Benefit Transfer (S-EBT) Program, particularly concerning eligibility and application requirements for students. Below are the key points:

• Eligibility Timeline:

  • Students can become eligible for 2024 S-EBT benefits any time between July 1, 2023, and August 31, 2024.
  • Families must be able to submit a National School Lunch Program (NSLP) application or Alternative Income Form during this period if their economic circumstances change.

• Primary Eligibility Sources:

  • The majority of eligible students are identified through existing records in:
    • Statewide Automated Welfare System (SAWS): Tracks participation in CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi-Cal (at or under 185% of the Federal Poverty Level).
    • CALPADS: Identifies students eligible through migrant, homeless, foster status, or an existing Free or Reduced-Price Meal (FRPM) record based on an NSLP application or Alternative Income Form.

• Enrollment Requirement:

  • To receive benefits, students must have been enrolled in a school participating in NSLP or School Breakfast Program (SBP) at any time from July 1, 2023, to August 31, 2024.

• Need for Continued Application Processing:

  • Two key groups may need to submit NSLP applications or Alternative Income Forms:
    • Students previously enrolled in NSLP/SBP schools who have not yet submitted the necessary forms to update FRPM eligibility.
    • Students enrolling in a California public school for the first time in the 2024-25 school year before August 31, 2024.

• Application Submission Deadline:

  • LEAs (Local Educational Agencies) must receive NSLP applications or Alternative Income Forms on or before August 31, 2024, to ensure eligibility for 2024 S-EBT benefits.
  • Once received, LEAs must process these applications and submit an FRPM program record to CALPADS with a start date on or before August 31, 2024.

• Monthly Data Extraction:

  • To accommodate processing, the California Department of Education (CDE) will extract data from CALPADS on a monthly basis through December 2024. This ensures newly eligible students are identified for benefit issuance.
  • Remaining 2024 data extraction dates: August 31, September 30, October 31, November 27, December 31.

This summary captures the essential information regarding the S-EBT program updates, focusing on timelines, eligibility criteria, and the application process to ensure students receive the benefits they are entitled to.

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