Activate Sun Bucks Card California 2024

The easiest way to activate your SUN Bucks card is to call the dedicated helpline at (877) 328-9677. SUN Bucks can be used like a debit card at most grocery stores and farmers’ markets that accept EBT.

SUN Bucks is a program in California that helps families with school-aged children buy groceries during the summer months when kids might not have access to school meals.

It’s essentially a way to make sure kids continue to get the nutrition they need even when school is out.

How To Activate Sun Bucks Card California

1. Call the SUN Bucks Helpline:

• The easiest way to activate your SUN Bucks card is to call the dedicated helpline at (877) 328-9677.
• They are available 24/7 and offer assistance in multiple languages.
• Follow the automated prompts to activate your card and set your PIN.

2. Activate Online (If Available):

• While the primary method is through the helpline, some states might offer online activation through the California EBT cardholder website.
• You can check the website for this option, but the helpline is generally the most reliable method.

Here’s how it works:

• Eligibility: Most children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals, or receive other forms of assistance like CalFresh, CalWORKs, or Medi-Cal, are automatically enrolled in SUN Bucks.

• Benefits: Eligible children receive $120 on an EBT card to buy groceries. This is usually distributed as $40 per month for June, July, and August.

• Using the Card: The SUN Bucks card works like a debit card and can be used at most grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and other places that accept EBT. You can even use it online at stores like Amazon and Walmart.

• What You Can Buy: You can use SUN Bucks to buy a variety of food items, including:

• • Fruits and vegetables
  • Meat, poultry, and fish
  • Dairy products
  • Breads and cereals
  • Snack foods and non-alcoholic drinks

Important Notes:

• PIN Activation Code: You’ll likely need the birthdate of one of the eligible children in your household to set up your PIN. Try entering the birthdates in MMDDYYYY format, starting with the youngest child.

• Card Expiration: Remember that SUN Bucks benefits generally expire about 4 months (122 days) after they are loaded onto the card. Use them before they expire!

• Using Your Card: SUN Bucks can be used like a debit card at most grocery stores and farmers’ markets that accept EBT.

If you have more questions about SUN Bucks, you can visit the California Department of Social Services website or call the SUN Bucks helpline at (877) 328-9677.