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On Universal Credit in England? Your child can now get free school meals

Since the start of the 2026 to 2027 school year, children in England can get free school meals if their household gets Universal Credit, whatever the household earns. Children in reception, year 1 and year 2 at state-funded schools already get them. Meals are not automatic, so you still need to apply. This guide explains who qualifies, how to apply and what to check.

Reviewed 06/11/2026 · Applies to: England

Who this helps

Parents and carers in England with school-age children, including newcomer families getting Universal Credit or other support.

What to do

  1. Check whether you qualify. From the 2026 to 2027 school year, your child can get free school meals if you get Universal Credit, regardless of household income. Income-related Employment and Support Allowance, the guarantee element of Pension Credit and support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 also qualify.
  2. If your child is in reception, year 1 or year 2 at a government-funded school, they can already get free school meals. If you get a qualifying benefit, still tell your council, because it can bring your child's school extra funding.
  3. Apply through your local council. Its website explains how; some councils ask you to apply through the school. Free school meals are not given automatically: a parent or other responsible adult must make a claim.
  4. If your family has no recourse to public funds, you may still be eligible. Ask your child's school or your council.
  5. Tell the school or council if your benefits change. Transitional protections ended at the end of the 2025 to 2026 school year, so your child must meet the eligibility criteria to keep getting free meals.
  6. Ask about holiday support. Children who get free school meals through a qualifying benefit with household earnings of £7,400 a year or less (after tax, not counting benefits) can usually join the Holiday Activities and Food programme at Easter, summer and Christmas. Your council may also have food vouchers through the Household Support Fund.

Before you act

  • England only. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have their own free school meals schemes.
  • Children who qualify only because of the new Universal Credit rule, with household earnings above £7,400 a year, do not become eligible for the Holiday Activities and Food programme.
  • This is general information. Your council or school will confirm whether your child qualifies.

Take the next step

Continue to the provider’s website to check the latest details and use the service.

UK government: check eligibility and apply for free school meals ↗

Destination: www.gov.uk

Sources

MyAgumba explains the sources above. Eligibility and availability depend on your circumstances and the provider’s current rules.