Governor Phil Murphy • Lt. Governor Tahesha Way

Summer EBT

No, Summer EBT is a separate program and does not impact any other benefits. It is different from SNAP and other summer feeding programs or benefits a family might receive.

Your card can be used to purchase eligible food items at any store (in-person or online) that accepts SNAP. To find a SNAP retailer near you, or to learn more about eligible food items, visit the NJ SNAP Using Your Benefits page.

At the store:  

  • Slide your card through the payment machine; 
  • Choose the FOOD option; and 
  • Enter your PIN on the keypad. 

Just like SNAP, recipients may also use their Summer EBT card to purchase eligible SNAP food items online at participating stores. For more information about ordering online and to find participating stores in your area, visit the NJ SNAP “Using Your Benefits” page.   

  • Fruits and vegetables;
  • Beans, fish, poultry, meat;
  • Rice, bread, tortillas, cereal;
  • Milk and cheese; and
  • Seeds and plants that produce food.

No, you do not have to use all of your Summer EBT benefits at one time; however, they must be used within four months from the day the benefits were added to your Summer EBT account. Any benefits remaining on the card after 122 days will expire. 

  • Do not share your PIN with anyone. 
  • Do not write your PIN on your card or card holder. Also, do not carry the number with you in your purse or wallet.  
  • If you cannot find your card or if you think someone knows your PIN, immediately call 1- 800-997-3333. 
  • Keep your card away from electronic equipment (TVs and microwaves), magnets, and out of the sun.

If you forget your PIN, but haven’t lost your card, you can change your PIN online at EBT Connect Client Portal after you create a user account and log in. Or, you can call 1-800-997-3333.

If you need to replace your Summer EBT card you can call 1-800-997-3333 to cancel your existing card and to order a replacement card.

  • If you did not receive your Summer EBT card because your address was incorrect, you must contact your school district to update the address for the student. If your child does not attend an NSLP/SBP-participating school, or is home-schooled, but your household participates in SNAP, TANF, income-eligible Medicaid, or Foster Care, and your child is between the ages of 6-16 years old, you must contact your local county social service agency to update your child’s address.
  • If your Summer EBT card has been lost, stolen or damaged, it is important to immediately cancel your card. You can cancel your card by using the ConnectEBT app on your mobile device; online at EBT Connect Client Portal or by calling 1-800-997-3333. This will “freeze” your card so no one can use your benefits. You may be asked to verify your identity.
  • There may be a $1.50 fee for replacement Summer EBT cards.

You now have a quick and easy way to protect your Summer EBT benefits from theft, the same way you are able to lock your Families First card when not in use. When you are in a store and ready to use your card, you can unlock it to use your benefits and lock it again when you are done. For more information and additional instructions, click here.

children with lunches