New Income Thresholds Set for Maryland's Free and Reduced-Price School Meals

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The Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) has announced updated income eligibility guidelines for its free and reduced-price school meal programs, a change that will affect families across the state through June 30, 2027. These guidelines, which are adjusted annually by the federal government, determine a child’s eligibility based on their family’s size and income.

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For a family of four, the threshold for a child to receive free school meals is an annual household income at or below $42,900. Families with incomes ranging from $42,901 to $61,050 for the same family size are now eligible for their children to receive reduced-price meals. These adjustments are designed to ensure that children most in need have access to nutritious meals during the school day. The MSDE oversees these programs, adhering to nutrition standards established by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), with the state’s Maryland Cares for Kids Act providing funding for the reduced-price meal costs.

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The application process requires complete submissions for review. Following an assessment, schools will inform households of their children’s eligibility status. Parents or guardians who have concerns about a decision or disagree with the outcome have the option to seek clarification from school officials, appeal the determination, or request a formal hearing with school district administrators. Certain children, including those in Head Start, Even Start, or identified as homeless, migrant, runaway, or foster youth, as well as those whose households receive Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA) benefits, will automatically qualify for free meals without the need for an application. Families are encouraged to reapply at any point during the school year if their household circumstances change, such as shifts in family size, employment status, income, or if they begin receiving SNAP or TCA benefits. U.S. citizenship is not a prerequisite for applying for these meal programs.

Article by Mel Anara, based upon information from the Maryland State Department of Education

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