When school's out, nutrition doesn't take a break. The Summer Electronic Benefits Transfer (SEBT) program is a permanent federal child nutrition program designed to help eligible families cover the cost of meals during the summer months when school is not in session. SEBT helps Kentucky kids stay fueled all summer long!
Program Authority & Compliance
The U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Service (FNS) issued the Interim Final Rule titled “Establishing the Summer EBT Program and Rural Non-Congregate Option in the Summer Meal Programs" (88 FR 90230).
Who Is Eligible to receive for SEBT?
Great news! Many students are automatically eligible for SEBT benefits.
Automatically Eligible Students
Children will automatically receive SEBT benefits if they meet one of the following criteria:
No application is required for these students.
Students Who May Need to Apply
Students who are not automatically eligible may still qualify for SEBT benefits.
Students are encouraged to apply if they:
Applications can be submitted online using the SEBT website or through kynect. Paper applications are also available at your local Department for Community Based Services (DCBS) office.
This application is available year-round. To be considered for Summer 2026 SEBT benefits applications must be submitted on or before August 15, 2026.
Finding Your Student's SSID Number
To apply, you must provide your child's Statewide Student Identifier, or SSID, a unique 10-digit number assigned by the school.
Parents and guardians can find the SSID by:
- Logging into Infinite Campus.
- Contacting the child's school or district office.
For privacy and security reasons, SSIDs are only provided to parents or guardians.
Private school students applying for SEBT do not need an SSID.
Why SEBT Matters
SEBT helps ensure children continue to receive nutritious meals even when school cafeterias are closed, supporting healthy growth, learning, and well-being all year long.