Universal Benefits Application

At any time, you can complete a Universal Benefits Application (UBA) and submit it to the District Office. These benefits include SUN Bucks and helping MPESD receive additional funds through programs like the Local Control Funding Formula (LCFF), enabling expanded services, staff, classroom resources, summer programs, and much more. 

Your family might be eligible for SUN Bucks if:

• You already participate in CalFresh, CalWORKs, and/or Medi-Cal (certified at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL); or
• Your child attends a school that offers the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or School Breakfast Program (SBP) and meets the SUN Bucks income requirements based on an approved school meal application or Universal Benefits Application.

Deadlines

For summer 2026 SUN Bucks, you can submit the UBA at any time.

Submit by Tuesday, September 2, 2025, to ensure eligibility for summer 2025 SUN Bucks. Applications received between Sept. 3 and Sept. 15, 2025, may still be considered for summer 2026 — but must be dated Sept. 2 or earlier to apply for 2025 benefits.

What are SUN Bucks?

They come from the SUN Bucks program, which grants eligible families an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card for groceries at authorized retailers. Fruits, vegetables, meats, eggs, whole grains, and dairy can be purchased with this card.

$120 is given per eligible child. Families will have 122 days after the funds are added to their card to spend them.

How do I apply?

With MPESD, you will have to complete a UBA. Please click on the tab for instructions in your preferred language. Once you have finished completing the form, turn it in at the District Office (3434 Marten Avenue, San Jose, CA 95148).

Please note that you only have to complete one application per household, listing all students. These applications are confidential and will not affect your immigration status or meal service eligibility.

If you have any questions, you can call the SUN Bucks helpline at 1 (877) 328-9677.