While both P EBT (Pandemic Electronic Benefit Transfer) and SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provide assistance for purchasing food, they are not exactly the same.
Benefits Coverage
P EBT specifically aims to support families with children who are eligible for free or reduced-price meals at school. On the other hand, SNAP benefits are available to low-income individuals or families regardless of whether they have children or not.
Application Process
The process of applying for P EBT is different from applying for SNAP. Families with children who qualify for free or reduced-price meals at school may automatically receive P EBT benefits, while SNAP requires a separate application process through the state.
Benefit Calculation
Benefit amounts for P EBT are calculated based on the number of days schools are closed and the number of children in the household who qualify for free or reduced-price meals. On the other hand, SNAP benefits are calculated based on household size, income, and expenses.
Expiration Date
P EBT benefits have an expiration date, typically at the end of the school year or summer break, depending on when the benefits were issued. In contrast, SNAP benefits do not have an expiration date and can be used as long as the individual or family qualifies for the program.
Allowed Purchases
P EBT benefits can be used to purchase food items that can be prepared and consumed at home, similar to SNAP benefits. However, SNAP benefits have specific restrictions on what can and cannot be purchased, while P EBT benefits may be more flexible in terms of eligible items.
In conclusion, while P EBT and SNAP both provide assistance for purchasing food, they have distinct differences in terms of benefits coverage, application process, benefit calculation, expiration date, and allowed purchases.