KSDE releases new income guidelines for school meal programs

KANSAS (KSNT) – The Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) shared its guidelines for the Child Nutrition Program that provides reduced and free meals to many students in the Sunflower State.

The KSDE announced that all Kansas school districts and many private schools are participating in the National Lunch and/or School Breakfast Program on Tuesday, July 22. The benefits are available from schools and can be submitted at any time during the year. The 2025-2026 Income Eligibility Guidelines can be found below:

Household Size	Free Benefits	Reduced Price Benefits
1	$20,345	$28,953
2	$27,495	$39,128
3	$34,645	$49,303
4	$41,795	$59,478
5	$48,945	$69,653
6	$56,095	$79,828
7	$63,245	$90,003
8	$70,395	$100,178
For each additional household member, add:	+$7,150	+$10,175

People applying for the Child Nutrition Program benefits must include complete household information, income details, Social Security information and a signature from an adult of the household. Families receiving food assistance or Temporary Assistance to Families (TAF) and foster children under state custody get automatic eligibility for free meals.

Children under Head Start, Migrant Education or who are homeless or runaway may also talk to their school district about qualifying. Students who are enrolled in the special supplemental nutrition program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) or who receive certain Medicaid benefits may be eligible for reduced-price meals or free benefits.

Parents who are unsatisfied with eligibility rulings can appeal the request orally or in writing for a hearing on the decision. To appeal the rulings, parents must contact the school district or private school for information on the process.

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