Pandemic EBT (P-EBT)

P-EBT is a federal assistance program that helps make up for free or reduced-price meals children may have missed because of COVID. The program provides $123 per month in food benefits for children who attend a school that uses 100% distance learning, or $68 per month for those who attend a school that uses a mixture of in-person and distance learning.

P-EBT update: 

P-EBT for the 2021-2022 school year is pending federal approval.

Who is eligible

• Young children under age 6 who received CalFresh food benefits for the 2020-21 school year.
• School-age children who were eligible for free or reduced-price school meals during the 2020-21 school year. 

How to get P-EBT

You do not need to apply for P-EBT. A card will be automatically mailed to each eligible child.

When you get P-EBT

• You will not put your immigration status at risk by using P-EBT food benefits.
• Use the P-EBT card in the same places that take CalFresh: grocery stores, farmers markets, Amazon, or other online retailers.
• Don’t throw your P-EBT card away. Cards are automatically reloaded with new benefits as they come become available.
• Check the P-EBT benefits expiration date and be sure to use your card at least once a year to ensure you don't miss out on any food.

See the state's P-EBT Frequently Asked Questions for more details.

Need help with your card?

You’ll need to set up a PIN to use your new card. Follow the instructions that come with the card. If you need assistance with your PIN or to replace a card, call the P-EBT Helpline at (877) 328-9677, Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.

SFHSA partner resources

Visit the state partner resources webpage for the fact sheet, social media posts, flyer, robocall script, and text script. All are available in multiple languages.