The Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer (P-EBT) program has been a crucial lifeline for families in Virginia, helping to address food insecurity brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. Designed to provide nutrition assistance to children who qualify for free or reduced-price school meals, P-EBT continues to evolve as the effects of the pandemic persist and inflation impacts household budgets. As we move into 2024, many families are wondering what the P-EBT program will look like this year and how they can access these important benefits.
In this article, we’ll cover the most recent updates to Virginia’s P-EBT program for 2024, eligibility requirements, how to access benefits, and frequently asked questions to help families stay informed and prepared.
What Is the P-EBT Program?
The P-EBT (Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer) program was created in response to the COVID-19 pandemic to provide temporary assistance to families whose children missed out on school meals due to school closures or shifts to virtual learning. The program, managed by the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) and the Virginia Department of Education (VDOE), provides eligible families with benefits to help cover the cost of food for their children.
These benefits are distributed through an EBT card, which works similarly to a debit card, allowing families to purchase food at approved retailers, including grocery stores and some farmers’ markets.
2024 P-EBT Program Updates in Virginia
As of 2024, Virginia has made several key updates to the P-EBT program. These updates reflect changes in both the pandemic landscape and the need for continued food assistance for students who rely on school meal programs.
Continued Assistance for Eligible Students
For 2024, Virginia will continue to provide P-EBT benefits to students who meet specific eligibility criteria. These benefits are intended to ensure that children from low-income households continue to have access to healthy meals even when schools are not in session or when they cannot participate in school meal programs.
Eligibility for P-EBT in 2024
To qualify for P-EBT benefits in Virginia in 2024, families must meet the following criteria:
- Participation in Free or Reduced-Price Meal Programs: Children who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) are eligible for P-EBT benefits. Eligibility is typically based on family income levels or participation in other government assistance programs such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).
- Missed School Meals Due to COVID-19: In cases where a child is unable to access school meals due to pandemic-related reasons, such as school closures or mandatory quarantines, they may be eligible for P-EBT benefits. The state evaluates each situation to ensure that benefits are distributed fairly.
- Children Under 6 on SNAP: Children under the age of 6 who are part of households that receive SNAP benefits may also be eligible for P-EBT benefits if they live in areas where schools or childcare facilities are closed or operating at reduced capacity.
Benefit Distribution for 2024
In 2024, Virginia plans to distribute P-EBT benefits in waves, similar to previous years. Benefits will be issued based on the school calendar and the specific circumstances of each household. Here’s what families can expect:
- Benefit Amount: The amount of P-EBT benefits will vary depending on the number of days a child misses access to school meals. Each eligible child will receive a daily amount for each missed school day, typically around $6.82 per day.
- P-EBT Cards: Benefits will continue to be distributed through P-EBT cards. Families who received P-EBT benefits in the past may have their benefits loaded onto existing cards. New eligible families will receive a P-EBT card in the mail. It’s important to keep your card even if it has a zero balance, as future benefits may be added.
- Distribution Schedule: Benefits will be distributed on a rolling basis, with payments typically made monthly. Families should keep an eye on announcements from the Virginia Department of Social Services for specific dates.
Changes in 2024
While P-EBT will continue to be available in 2024, there are a few changes to note:
- Schools Operating Normally: For schools that are fully open for in-person learning, P-EBT benefits may be limited. However, if a school or district reverts to remote learning or if a child is required to quarantine, benefits will be adjusted accordingly.
- Expanded Access for Younger Children: Families with children under the age of 6 who are on SNAP may continue to receive P-EBT benefits in 2024, especially in areas where childcare facilities or schools are disrupted by COVID-19.
How to Apply for P-EBT Benefits
Families do not need to apply separately for P-EBT benefits in Virginia. Eligibility is automatically determined based on school records and participation in the National School Lunch Program or SNAP. However, it’s crucial that families ensure their contact information is up-to-date with their child’s school, as benefits and important notifications are often tied to school records.
Steps for Families Already Receiving SNAP
If your family is already receiving SNAP benefits, P-EBT benefits for eligible children will be automatically added to your existing EBT card. No additional action is required.
Steps for Non-SNAP Families
If your family does not receive SNAP benefits but your child qualifies for free or reduced-price school meals, you will receive a P-EBT card in the mail. Make sure to activate the card upon receipt and follow the instructions to start using the benefits.
Overview of P-EBT Benefits in Virginia for 2024
| Category | Details |
| Eligibility | Students eligible for free/reduced-price meals, children under 6 on SNAP |
| Benefit Amount | Approximately $6.82 per day of missed school meals |
| Card Distribution | Existing P-EBT cards for past recipients, new cards for first-time recipients |
| Benefit Distribution | Monthly, based on school schedules and student attendance |
| Application Process | No separate application needed; eligibility determined automatically |
Frequently Asked Questions About P-EBT in Virginia
How do I know if my child is eligible for P-EBT benefits in 2024?
Your child may be eligible if they qualify for free or reduced-price meals through the National School Lunch Program or if they are under the age of 6 and live in a household receiving SNAP benefits. If your child’s school is closed or your child misses school meals due to COVID-19, they may also qualify.
Will I receive a new P-EBT card for 2024?
If you have received P-EBT benefits in the past, your benefits may be loaded onto your existing P-EBT card. New eligible families will receive a card in the mail.
What is the benefit amount for P-EBT in 2024?
The benefit amount is approximately $6.82 per day for each missed school day that your child is unable to access school meals.
Do I need to apply for P-EBT benefits in Virginia?
No separate application is required for P-EBT benefits. Eligibility is automatically determined based on school and SNAP records.
When will P-EBT benefits be distributed in 2024?
P-EBT benefits will be distributed on a rolling basis, typically monthly. The Virginia Department of Social Services will provide updates on specific distribution dates.
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The P-EBT program continues to play an essential role in supporting families across Virginia by providing food assistance to children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals. In 2024, Virginia’s P-EBT program will continue to adapt to the changing needs of students and families affected by the pandemic and economic challenges.
By staying informed and ensuring that your contact information is up-to-date with your child’s school, families can ensure they receive the benefits they are eligible for, helping to reduce food insecurity and provide nutritious meals for their children. Keep an eye on announcements from the Virginia Department of Social Services and the Virginia Department of Education for the latest updates.