You asked about Free School Meals (England): here is how it works, how much you could get and how it is paid.
See eligibility & how to claim →
Below you’ll find how much you could get, how it is paid and how the scheme works.
Amounts can change each tax year, so always check the latest rates on the official page.
Support you may be entitled to
EnglandCouncil-runFree lunch
💷 How much & how it is paid
- Who can get it: Children whose parents get Universal Credit (any income from the 2026 to 2027 academic year), income-related ESA, Pension Credit Guarantee Credit or asylum support
- Infants: All children in reception, year 1 and year 2 at government-funded schools in England
- How much: A free school lunch each school day
- How to claim: Apply through your local council
⚙️ How it works
Eligibility is decided by the responsible body based on your circumstances. Once your claim is approved, payments are made according to the scheme’s rules. Report any change in your circumstances so your payments stay correct.
🧮 Check what you could get
Use an independent benefits calculator linked from GOV.UK to estimate what you may be entitled to before you claim.
Eligibility is checked by your local council.