The Maryland SUN Bucks program, also known as Summer EBT, helps families purchase groceries for their school-aged children during the summer break. If you've received your white Maryland SUN Bucks card or have benefits added to an existing SNAP EBT card, you can use these funds at a variety of authorized retailers. The key is to look for merchants who accept Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) for food purchases. Your SUN Bucks can be used anywhere in the United States that accepts SNAP EBT.
Where to use your Maryland Sun Bucks in-person
Your SUN Bucks card functions like a debit card and can be used at most major food retailers. When you are shopping, look for signage indicating that the store accepts EBT or SNAP benefits. The process is similar to using a credit or debit card, where you will swipe your card and enter your PIN at checkout.
- Grocery Stores: Most large grocery chains and supermarkets across Maryland and the country accept EBT cards. This includes stores like Aldi, Giant of Maryland, Martin's, Safeway, ShopRite, and Weis.
- Farmers Markets: Many farmers markets in Maryland are authorized to accept EBT and often participate in programs like Maryland Market Money, which can double your SNAP/EBT dollars for fresh produce. You can check with individual market managers to confirm they accept EBT cards.
- Convenience Stores: Some convenience stores and smaller markets that are authorized to accept SNAP benefits will also accept SUN Bucks for eligible food purchases.
Using Maryland Sun Bucks online
For added convenience, many authorized retailers now allow you to use your EBT card to purchase groceries online for delivery or pickup. This service is available through the USDA's online purchasing pilot program. You'll need to visit the retailer's website or app to set up an account and enter your EBT card information.
Participating Online Retailers:
- Amazon: Eligible groceries can be purchased from Amazon's website using your EBT card. Note that Prime memberships and shipping fees for non-eligible items cannot be paid with your SUN Bucks.
- Walmart: Walmart offers online grocery pickup and delivery for EBT users.
- Aldi: You can use your EBT card for online orders through the Aldi website or app.
- ShopRite: This regional chain also accepts EBT for online grocery purchases.
For a complete list of retailers authorized for online EBT purchasing, you can visit the USDA's Food and Nutrition Service website.
What you can and cannot buy with SUN Bucks
Maryland SUN Bucks can be used to buy a wide variety of foods intended for home consumption. However, there are strict rules about what is an eligible purchase.
Eligible Food Items
- Fruits and vegetables
- Meat, poultry, and fish
- Dairy products
- Breads and cereals
- Snack foods and non-alcoholic beverages
- Seeds and plants that produce food for the household to eat
Ineligible Items
- Hot, prepared foods ready for immediate consumption
- Alcoholic beverages, tobacco, or cigarettes
- Non-food items such as pet food, soap, paper products, and household supplies
- Vitamins and medicines
Comparison of Shopping Options for Maryland Sun Bucks
| Feature | In-Store Shopping | Online Shopping (Pickup/Delivery) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Widely available at any SNAP-authorized retailer. | Limited to retailers participating in the online EBT pilot program. |
| Convenience | Allows for direct inspection of products. | Shop from home; saves time and effort. |
| Payment | Swipe EBT card and enter PIN at checkout. | Enter EBT card information online. Requires separate payment for ineligible items or fees. |
| Best For | Last-minute needs, inspecting fresh produce, or shoppers who prefer a traditional experience. | Large grocery hauls, avoiding travel, or families without consistent transportation. |
The importance of managing your benefits
Your SUN Bucks benefits have an expiration date. Maryland SUN Bucks will expire 122 days after the date they were issued. It is important to use the benefits within this timeframe, as unused benefits will be removed from your card and cannot be reissued. If you also have regular SNAP benefits on your EBT card, the system will automatically use the SUN Bucks benefits first due to their shorter expiration period.
Conclusion
Maryland SUN Bucks provides critical nutritional support for children during the summer months when school is out. By understanding which retailers accept EBT cards, both in-person and online, and knowing what items are eligible, you can maximize your benefits to provide healthy meals for your family. Always use the USDA SNAP Retailer Locator or check with individual stores to confirm EBT acceptance. Keeping an eye on the expiration date will also ensure you get the full value of your benefits. The program is an important resource in the fight against childhood hunger in Maryland.
