The 60-second answer
From September 2026, all children in England whose household receives Universal Credit can be eligible for a free school meal.
Previously, eligibility for many families depended on household earnings being below a set threshold. That threshold still matters for some additional support, but it no longer decides whether a child in a Universal Credit household can receive a free school meal.
The important next step is simple: families still need to apply through their school or local authority so that eligibility can be checked and confirmed.
What has changed?
The government has expanded free school meals for the 2026–27 academic year.
Children from households receiving Universal Credit are now entitled to a free school meal regardless of household earnings. This is called expanded free school meals.
There are now two categories:
- Targeted free school meals for children in Universal Credit households with annual earnings of £7,400 or less, as well as some other qualifying groups.
- Expanded free school meals for children in Universal Credit households with earnings above £7,400.
Both groups receive a free school meal. However, some additional support remains linked only to targeted free school meals.
Why should parents still apply?
A child does not receive free school meals automatically just because their family receives Universal Credit.
The school or local authority needs to verify eligibility. Applying also helps the school record the right support for your child.
For families who meet the targeted criteria, registration may also connect to support such as pupil premium funding, free school milk, the Holiday Activities and Food programme, and some school-travel assistance. Families eligible through expanded free school meals receive the meal itself, but not all of these additional entitlements.
What about children in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2?
All children in state-funded schools in Reception, Year 1 and Year 2 can continue to receive a free school meal through the universal infant free school meals programme.
However, if you receive Universal Credit or another qualifying benefit, it is still worth applying. Your child may meet the targeted criteria, which can unlock additional funding and support for their school.
How do I check whether my child is eligible?
Start with your child’s school website or your local council’s free school meals page. They will explain how to apply and what information is needed.
You may be eligible if your household receives:
- Universal Credit
- Income-related Employment and Support Allowance
- the guaranteed element of Pension Credit
- support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999
Some families with no recourse to public funds may also be eligible. In that situation, speak directly to your child’s school or local authority.
The bigger picture for families
School meals are about more than reducing one daily cost. They can support routines, concentration and children’s ability to take part fully in the school day.
If you have assumed that your household would not qualify in the past, it is worth checking again. The rules have changed, and a quick application could make a meaningful difference.
Halo’s perspective
When families have clearer access to support, children are better placed to focus on learning, confidence and progress.
At Halo Tuition Academy, we believe educational support should be practical as well as academic. Knowing what help is available is part of helping children thrive.
Looking for personalised academic support for your child? Speak to the Halo Tuition Academy team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all children on Universal Credit now get free school meals?
From the 2026–27 academic year, children in households receiving Universal Credit can be eligible for a free school meal. Families still need to apply and have eligibility verified by their school or local authority.
Do I need to apply if my child is in Reception, Year 1 or Year 2?
Yes, if you receive Universal Credit or another qualifying benefit. Your child already receives a universal infant free school meal, but applying could help their school access additional targeted support.
What is the £7,400 threshold?
The £7,400 annual earnings threshold now determines eligibility for targeted free school meals and related support. It no longer prevents a child in a Universal Credit household from receiving the free meal itself.
Where do I apply?
Apply through your child’s school or your local authority. Check the school website first for the correct local process.
Sources
- Department for Education, Free school meals: guidance for schools and local authorities https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/free-school-meals-guidance-for-schools-and-local-authorities
- GOV.UK, Apply for free school meals https://www.gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals
- Department for Education, Implementing changes to free school meals https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/free-school-meals-guidance-for-schools-and-local-authorities/implementing-changes-to-free-school-meals
Editorial note: This article reflects England’s free school meals guidance for the 2026–27 academic year. Eligibility must be verified by the relevant school or local authority.