Pandemic-EBT Cards: Take These Two Steps to Receive Benefits

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California is getting ready to issue Pandemic-EBT (P-EBT) benefits for the 2020-21 school year. Eligible families can receive a P-EBT card with funds to purchase food while school buildings are closed.

To receive P-EBT, review the following before Feb. 22:

  1. Ensure your children are eligible for free or reduced-price school meals. If you haven’t already, update your household income information online by submitting the Multipurpose Family Income Form. 
  2. Ensure your mailing address is correct. Check which address you have on file or update it by completing the Emergency Card form online in ParentVUE.

The State of California will mail cards directly to families March through June. Families do not need to apply. Benefits have recently been increased by 15% and will include any August and September funds not received. Like school meals, P-EBT is available regardless of citizenship status and is not considered a “public charge.” 

Note: All students enrolled in Community Eligibility Provision schools, receiving CalFresh or CalWORKs, or who are homeless, migrant, or foster, are automatically eligible and do not need to submit the Multipurpose Family Income Form. Please ensure your mailing address is correct!