餐Free school breakfast and lunch
Since the 2025–26 school year, every public school student in New York State gets free breakfast and lunch, regardless of income or status, with no application. The state's FY2027 budget continues the funding.
Important: this guide is general information, not legal, immigration or other professional advice. Rules may have changed; confirm with the agency before applying. Disclaimer
Who can apply
- Public school students in New York State
How to apply, step by step
- Step 1No application: if your child goes to a New York State public school, breakfast and lunch are free every day.
- Step 2NYC public schools also give free afterschool meals.
- Step 3If the school sends a household income form, fill it in anyway; it may help the school get more funding.
After you apply
- Nothing to wait for: your child can eat from the first day of school.
- Daily menus are on the NYC Public Schools school-meals page.
- If there's a problem with meals, ask the school office first.
Tips
- Free meals don't depend on income or status; let your child eat with confidence.
- The income form is used for school funding counts, not to check status.
This guide is general information, not legal or professional advice. Rules change often; confirm with the official website or agency staff before applying.
