Apply for free school meals

Find out if your child is eligible for free school meals and how to apply.

You can apply online for free school meals -  https://www.suffolk.gov.uk/children-families-and-learning/schools/school-meals-uniforms-and-trips/apply-for-free-school-meals

You'll get an immediate response and confirmation email after you've completed your application.

From September 2026, there are two types of benefits-based free school meals

Targeted free school meals

Targeted free school meals are for children in households receiving Universal Credit with annual household earnings of £7,400 or less, or another qualifying benefit.

Children in this group can get free school meals, and their school may also receive extra funding and support.

Expanded free school meals

Expanded free school meals are for children in households receiving Universal Credit with annual household earnings above £7,400.

Children in this group can get free school meals only.

Are you eligible?

Your child may be eligible for free school meals if you, or your child, receive:

• Universal Credit
• support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999

Your child may also be eligible if they, or you, receive:

• income-related employment and support allowance
• the guarantee element of Pension Credit
• support under the rules for families with no recourse to public funds.