Families that were not automatically enrolled can still apply. A four-person household may qualify with annual income of up to $61,050.
By Hola America
MINNESOTA — Minnesota families have until Monday, Aug. 31, 2026, to apply for SUN Bucks if their children were not enrolled automatically. Each eligible child receives a one-time $120 grocery benefit.
The benefit equals $40 for each month of June, July and August. For example, a family with two eligible children may receive $240. A household with three may receive $360.
However, free school meals do not make every Minnesota child eligible for SUN Bucks. The program has separate rules for household income, public benefits and school enrollment.
Most eligible families do not need to submit another application. Instead, Minnesota uses records from schools and public benefit programs to enroll many children.
Related coverage: Iowa closed its 2026 application period on Aug. 14. Hola America’s guide explains when Iowa’s $120 SUN Bucks benefits expire.
Most eligible children are enrolled automatically
First, Minnesota automatically enrolls children ages 7 through 17 when their household participates in one of these programs:
- Minnesota Family Investment Program, or MFIP.
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, or SNAP.
- Tribal Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.
- Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations.
- Foster care.
Also, children of any age may qualify through their school. The school or early education program must participate in a federal meal program.
In that case, the child needs an approved application for free or reduced-price meals. The child may also qualify through one of the programs listed above.
However, Medical Assistance alone does not qualify a child for SUN Bucks. In addition, each child in the household must meet the program’s rules.
Finally, Minnesota states that participation in SUN Bucks does not affect immigration status.
Other families can apply through Aug. 31
Some children may meet the rules but not appear in Minnesota’s records. Those families can still apply based on household income and school participation.
Before applying, families can confirm that the child’s school takes part in the National School Lunch Program or School Breakfast Program. The school can also check whether it has an approved meal application for the child.
Then, families can complete the Minnesota SUN Bucks application online. The application period ends Aug. 31.
After Minnesota receives an application, the state will send an approval or denial email within two weeks. If approved, the benefit card may take several more weeks to arrive.
Meanwhile, applications received after Aug. 31 will not count toward the 2026 benefit. Minnesota will process those applications for the 2027 program.
A four-person household can earn up to $61,050 a year
The income limits equal 185% of the federal poverty level. They took effect July 1, 2026, and remain valid through June 30, 2027.
| Household size | Maximum annual income | Maximum monthly income |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $29,526 | $2,461 |
| 2 | $40,034 | $3,337 |
| 3 | $50,542 | $4,212 |
| 4 | $61,050 | $5,088 |
| 5 | $71,558 | $5,964 |
| 6 | $82,066 | $6,839 |
| 7 | $92,574 | $7,715 |
| 8 | $103,082 | $8,591 |
For example, a four-person household may qualify with monthly income of up to $5,088. A two-person household may qualify with up to $3,337 per month.
Also, the limit increases for larger families. Minnesota adds $10,508 a year, or $876 a month, for each person beyond eight.
However, income is only one part of the process. The child must also attend a participating school or early education program.
SUN Bucks cards may take three weeks to arrive
After approval, Minnesota sends a SUN Bucks card in the child’s name. The card arrives with the full $120 benefit.
Delivery may take up to three weeks. Then, families can use the card at stores and farmers markets that accept EBT.
The benefit covers approved groceries. These include fruits, vegetables, meat, grains, dairy products and other foods.
However, the money does not remain available indefinitely. SUN Bucks expire 122 days after the benefit becomes available.
Therefore, the expiration date will vary by child. Families can check the issue date and balance through ebtEDGE or by calling 888-997-2227.
Minnesota allows one $120 benefit per child each summer. Families that receive more than one card for the same child can call the SUN Bucks helpline at 651-431-4608.
Finally, current income limits and card resources remain available through the Minnesota SUN Bucks program. The 2026 application period closes Aug. 31.
Stay in the know with stories that matter — visit HolaAmericaNews.com for the latest news, culture and community updates.
Facebook Comments
