A good breakfast and lunch at school can make a big difference in how kids learn and feel. Through the National School Lunch Program and the School Breakfast Program, millions of children get meals for free or at a reduced price every school day.
Who qualifies
Eligibility is based mostly on household income and size. In general:
- Children in households at or below 130% of the federal poverty level can get free meals.
- Children in households between 130% and 185% can get reduced-price meals.
- Children in households that receive SNAP, TANF, or the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations are usually automatically eligible for free meals.
- Children in foster care, and children who are homeless, migrant, or runaway, are also eligible.
Community Eligibility: free meals for everyone
Some schools in high-need areas use the Community Eligibility Provision, which means every student gets free meals without filling out an application. Ask your school if this applies.
How to apply
- Get the application from your school, the district website, or the school office.
- Fill out one application for all the children in your household.
- Include household income or your SNAP or TANF case number.
- Submit it to the school or district office. You can apply any time during the school year.
The application is confidential. Schools are not supposed to identify which students get free or reduced-price meals.
Meals during the summer
When school’s out, kids can still get meals. Summer meal sites at schools, parks, libraries, and community centers serve free meals to children. Many states also offer SUN Bucks, also called Summer EBT, which gives families money on a card to buy groceries during the summer.
A real-life example
When Marisol’s husband lost his job in October, she didn’t think about school meals at first. A counselor at her kids’ school mentioned she could apply any time of year. She filled out one form for all three children.
Within a week, all three kids were approved for free breakfast and lunch. That saved the family a meaningful amount every month while her husband looked for new work.
Tips from people who have been through it
- Fill out the application even if you’re not sure you qualify.
- Apply again right away if your income drops mid-year.
- Ask the school if they use Community Eligibility, which means meals are already free.
- Check your state’s Summer EBT or SUN Bucks program before school lets out.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a Social Security number to apply?
No. The application only asks for the last four digits of an adult’s Social Security number if you have one. If you don’t, you can check the box that says you don’t have one.
What if my income changes during the year?
You can apply at any time. If you lose a job mid-year, submit a new application.
Does applying affect my immigration status?
School meal benefits are generally not considered in public charge decisions. If you have concerns, talk to a trusted immigration legal service.
Related guides
- SNAP Food Stamps: Who Qualifies and How to Apply
- WIC Benefits for Moms, Babies, and Young Kids
- Child Care Assistance for Working Parents
Official resources
This guide is for general information only. US Assistance Guide is an independent website and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to any government agency. Program rules, income limits, and benefit amounts change often and vary by state, so always confirm details with the official agency before you apply.