England to expand free school meal eligibility for Universal Credit households

England is implementing a major expansion of free school meal eligibility for the 2026/27 academic year. Under new government rules, all children from households receiving Universal Credit will be entitled to free school meals, regardless of the household's annual earnings. This marks a significant shift from previous restrictions that generally limited eligibility to Universal Credit households earning £7,400 or less per year.

The new system will feature two categories: targeted free school meals for those earning £7,400 or less, and expanded free school meals for those earning above that threshold. To support this, mainstream schools will receive an expansion grant of £505 annually for each additional eligible pupil.

In Essex, current eligibility remains tied to specific benefits and income thresholds. Children in reception through Year 2 receive meals automatically via the Universal Infant Free School Meals scheme. For children in Year 3 and above, eligibility depends on receiving qualifying benefits such as Income Support, certain Jobseeker’s Allowances, or Child Tax Credit with an annual income below £16,190. Local authorities are encouraging families to apply to ensure schools receive necessary funding.