Wes Moore Governor | Maryland Department Of Education
The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has announced updated Income Eligibility Guidelines (IEGs) for free and reduced-price school meals, effective through June 30, 2026. These guidelines are revised annually by the federal government and adopted by MSDE to determine which students qualify for meal assistance programs.
Eligibility is based on household size and income. For instance, a family of four with an annual income at or below $41,795 qualifies for free school meals. If the same family's income falls between $41,796 and $59,478, their children are eligible for reduced-price meals.
"Make sure to submit complete applications in full. Incomplete applications cannot be processed," according to MSDE. After reviewing applications, schools will inform households about their eligibility status. Families who have concerns or disagreements regarding eligibility decisions can request clarification from school officials, appeal the decision, or ask for a hearing with district administrators.
Some groups of children automatically qualify for free meals without needing to apply. This includes those enrolled in Head Start or Even Start programs, children certified as homeless, migrant, runaway, foster children, or those living in households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) benefits.
Families may reapply at any time during the school year if there are changes in household size, employment status, income level, or if they become eligible for SNAP or TCA benefits.
School meal programs follow nutrition standards set by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). The cost of reduced-price meals is covered by state funding through the Maryland Cares for Kids Act.
Adjustments to IEGs are made each year by USDA to help ensure that assistance reaches children most in need. The guidelines use federal poverty levels as a basis: 130% of these levels determines eligibility for free meals and 185% determines eligibility for reduced-price meals. Citizenship status is not required to apply.
For more information about the program and application process, families can visit www.eatsmartmaryland.org or contact the Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs at 410-767-0219.
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