From staff reports

HARRISBURG — The Pennsylvania Department of Education has announced updated federal income eligibility guidelines for free and reduced-price school meals for the 2026-27 school year.

The guidelines, issued by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, took effect July 1 and will be used by schools to determine eligibility for the National School Lunch and School Breakfast programs.

Pennsylvania Secretary of Education Dr. Carrie Rowe encouraged eligible families to apply, saying access to nutritious school meals helps students stay healthy and focused on learning.

Households receiving Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) benefits need only provide their case number when applying. Other eligible families may apply through the Commonwealth’s COMPASS website.

Under the new guidelines, a family of four qualifies for free meals with an annual household income of up to $42,900 and for reduced-price meals with an annual income of up to $61,050.