As of the 2023-2024 year, the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program in Florida has undergone some changes due to the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration on May 11.
Here are the key updates and information regarding the P-EBT program for the 2023-2024 school year:
P-EBT in Florida for 2023-2024
- Total Benefits: Florida has allocated $264 million in P-EBT benefits to assist over 2 million school children.
- Changes Due to Public Health Emergency Declaration End: Children under 6 in households participating in SNAP were not eligible for summer 2023 P-EBT benefits.
- Eligibility for School Children: School children who attended a National School Lunch Program participating school at the end of the last school year were eligible for summer 2023 P-EBT benefits.
Program Continuation
- Beyond Summer 2023: According to the state’s plan, P-EBT funds will not be available beyond the end of the fiscal year 2023 due to the ending of the COVID-19 public health emergency declaration.
Benefit Details
- Amount for Summer 2023: The P-EBT benefit for the entire 2023 covered summer period was capped at $120 per eligible child.
- Distribution Timeline: All 2023 P-EBT benefits must be distributed by the end of the fiscal year 2023, which is September 30. The state planned to issue benefits from July through September if possible, with all benefit issuances completed no later than December 31.
Additional Information
- P-EBT Card Application: The deadline to apply for a P-EBT card closed on June 1.
- Checking P-EBT Balance: Balances can be checked via the EBT Cardholder Portal, the ebtEDGE app, or by calling the EBT Customer Service number.
- Purchasable Items with P-EBT Benefits: Benefits can be used to buy food items like bread, cereals, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, poultry, dairy, and seeds for growing food.
Looking Ahead to 2024
- As of now, there is no specific information available about the continuation or details of the P-EBT program in Florida for 2024. The program’s future will likely depend on federal and state decisions closer to that time.
For the most current information and updates regarding the P-EBT program in Florida for 2024, it’s recommended to keep an eye on official state and federal nutrition assistance program announcements.