How to get free school meals for your children if you claim Universal Credit
Key points
- From September 2026, any family claiming Universal Credit qualifies for free school meals in England — the £7,400 earnings limit is being removed.
- Free school meals can save you up to £495 per child each year, which is roughly £41 a month you can put towards rent and bills.
- You need to apply through your child's school — it does not happen automatically, so apply before September to be ready from the first day of term.
What is changing in September 2026
Right now, you can get free school meals for your children if you claim Universal Credit and your household earns £7,400 or less a year after tax.
From September 2026, that earnings limit is being removed. Any family that claims Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals in England, no matter how much you earn.
Over half a million more children are expected to become eligible once the change takes effect.
How much you could save
Free school meals can save you up to £495 per child each year. That works out at roughly £41 a month per child — money that can go towards your rent, bills, and food at home.
If you have 2 children in year 3 or above, you could save close to £990 a year between them.
How to apply
Free school meals do not start automatically. You need to apply through your child's school, even if you know you will be entitled.
Here is what to do:
- Contact your child's school office and ask how to apply for free school meals.
- Give them your National Insurance number. Most schools run an automated check that confirms your Universal Credit claim in seconds.
- Apply before September. Schools can process applications over the summer holidays. Applying early means your child is registered to receive meals from the first day of the new term.
If your child already gets free school meals because your earnings are below £7,400, nothing changes for you — keep your current arrangement in place.
Search for your next property on DSSmove →Children in reception, year 1, and year 2
Children in the first three years of primary school already get free school meals regardless of your income, under the Universal Infant Free School Meals scheme. The September 2026 change applies mainly to children in year 3 and above.
Check whether you qualify now
The new rules do not start until September 2026. If your household earns more than £7,400 a year, you do not yet qualify — but you will from September.
To check current eligibility or apply today, visit your child's school office or go to gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals.
Frequently asked questions
What should I do if my child's school says they cannot check my eligibility yet?
Contact Citizens Advice for help — they can support you through the process at citizensadvice.org.uk.
Does this expansion apply in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland?
No — the September 2026 change applies in England only. Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland each set their own free school meal rules.
Official source: https://www.gov.uk/apply-free-school-meals