(*See link to Maine DOE Notice embedded below this section for reference)

Maine DHHS/OFI has worked with the Food and Nutrition Service and the Maine Department of Education to provide a P-EBT benefit that is meant to replace the value of school breakfast and lunch while schools are closed to physical presence. If you are currently on SNAP or TANF and have a child aged 5-18 in your household, you will receive a P-EBT benefit.

Question 1:

What happens next?

If you have an existing Pine Tree Card and are open on SNAP or TANF, you just need to look for the first benefit amount to be added to your account in May.

Question 2:

What if I am not on SNAP or TANF, but my child received free or reduced lunch?

If you are not on SNAP or TANF, but your child received free or reduced lunch you will need to request the benefit by calling 1-855-797-4357. You will need to give certain demographic information to an eligibility specialist who will then verify with the Department of Education that your child or children received free or reduced lunch.

Question 3:

What if my child did not receive free or reduced lunch, but I would like to apply?

If your child or children did not receive free or reduced lunch, you can apply through your local school district. If you are found eligible you can call 1-855-797-4357 and give certain demographic information to an eligibility specialist who will then verify with the Department of Education that your child or children are now eligible for free or reduced lunch. If you are newly eligible for free or reduced lunch, you will only receive one benefit amount.

Question 4:

How much will be on the card?

There are currently 2 benefit amounts planned:

1. The P-EBT combined benefit amount for March and April is $189 per child and will be available in May.

2. The P-EBT combined benefit amount for May and June is $194 per child and will be available in June.

Question 5:

How do I activate the card?

If you already have a card, you do not need to do anything.

If you are getting a card, you will need to call the phone number on the back of the card. You will need the date of birth of the individual named on the card. When prompted to provide the last 4 digits of the child’s social security number (you may need to enter 9999). You will need to set a four-digit pin number.

Question 6:

What if I don’t want to use these benefits?

Benefits cannot be given to others to use.

If you already have a Pine Tree Card that you receive other benefits on, please call 1-855-797-4357 and ask to have P-EBT removed.

If you receive a white card for P-EBT, you can just destroy and dispose of the card.

If you have any questions about this benefit, please call 1-855-797-4357.