School MealsFederal and stateUSDA

Free and reduced-price school meals

Children from low-income families can get free or reduced-price lunches and breakfasts through the National School Lunch Program and School Breakfast Program.

What your child gets

Free or reduced-price breakfast and lunch at participating schools. The reduced price is capped at $0.30 for breakfast and $0.40 for lunch. About 30 million children receive school meals each day. Some schools offer free meals to all students through the Community Eligibility Provision (CEP).

Income limits (FY 2027)

Household sizeFree meals (up to 130% FPL)Reduced price (up to 185% FPL)

1$1,632/month$2,322/month

2$2,215/month$3,152/month

3$2,799/month$3,982/month

4$3,383/month$4,813/month

Children in households receiving SNAP, TANF, or FDPIR are automatically eligible for free meals. Source: USDA FNS FY 2027.

How to apply

Submit an application to your child's school at the beginning of each school year. Applications are available from the school or district. If your family receives SNAP or TANF, the school may already know and enroll your child automatically.