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U.S. Department of Agriculture
Enrollment Period
Open enrollment
Established
1946
The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) provides nutritionally balanced, free or reduced-price lunches to children at participating public and nonprofit private schools and residential child care institutions each school day. Children from households at or below 130% of the Federal Poverty Level receive free meals, while those between 130% and 185% qualify for reduced-price meals at no more than $0.40. The program served approximately 30 million students daily and is administered by state agencies through participating schools.
Free lunch is available to children in families at or below 130% of the poverty line.
People Helped
29.6 million children
daily
Annual Federal Budget
$16.7 billion
Average Benefit
Free or reduced-price meals ($0–$0.40/meal)
Where Available
All 50 states and US territories
Answer each question — we'll show you exactly what applies to your situation.
Are you (or your child) enrolled in a participating program or school?
What is your household income?
This program requires income at or below 185% of the Federal Poverty Level — that's the government's measure of what it costs to meet basic needs. Select your household size to see your exact dollar limit.
Count everyone who lives and eats with you — yourself, spouse/partner, children, and any dependents. Count a pregnant woman as 2.
Are you currently receiving SNAP?
Are you applying for a child (under 18)?