You still have to apply through your council. Applying matters even for infants who already eat free, because the school gets extra funding for every child who is registered.
Quick facts
- Universal Credit
- Qualifies, whatever your income (2026/27)
- Other benefits
- Income-related ESA, Pension Credit guarantee
- Reception to year 2
- Free for every child
- Apply to
- Your local council
Who qualifies
Your child may be able to get free school meals if you get any of the following:
- Universal Credit
- income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
- the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
From the start of academic year 2026 to 2027, your child will qualify for free school meals if you get Universal Credit, regardless of household income.
Children who get paid these benefits directly, instead of through a parent or guardian, can also get free school meals.
Free meals for every infant
Your child will be able to get free school meals if they’re in a government-funded school and in reception class, year 1 or year 2.
Tell your local authority if you also get any of the qualifying benefits. Your child’s school could get extra funding if you do.
If you have no recourse to public funds
If you do not qualify for most benefits (also known as having ‘no recourse to public funds’), your child may still be eligible for free school meals. Ask their school or local authority whether they’re eligible.
Free school meals can also mean free transport
Your child may also qualify for free school transport if they’re eligible for free school meals. The rules for that are separate: see free school transport in England.
Help in the school holidays
Your council may also offer food vouchers to families during the school holidays, through the Crisis and Resilience Fund.
Common questions
Does every child on Universal Credit get free school meals?
From the start of the 2026 to 2027 school year, yes: your child qualifies if you get Universal Credit, regardless of household income.
Do infants get free school meals?
Yes. Every child in reception, year 1 and year 2 at a government-funded school can get them.
Should I still apply if my child is in reception?
Yes. Tell your local authority if you get a qualifying benefit, because the school could get extra funding.
Who do I apply to?
Your local council.