Free Student Meals
Applying for Child Nutrition Eligibility and Education Benefits
Students approved for free school meals may be eligible to receive reduced fees for the following programs:
- Students approved for free and reduced-price meals may also be eligible to receive reduced fees for the following programs:
- Event Fees
- Field Trips
- Running Start Books
- Associated Student Body (ASB) Fees
- Pre-College Exams (PSAT/SAT/ACT)
- College Application Fees
- Yearbook Fees
Schools with free student meals
Seattle Public Schools has several schools that will offer free meals (breakfast and lunch) for all students. See a list of schools that will offer free meals for all students.
See the schoolsWho Should Apply for Free Student Meals?
You should complete the student free meals application if:
- Your household income is the SAME or LESS than the amount on the income chart below.
- You receive Basic Food.
- You take part in the Food Distribution Program on Indian Reservations (FDPIR).
- You receive Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF).
- You are applying for a foster child.
Income Chart
USDA Child Nutrition Program Income Guidelines
Effective July 1–June 30, 2025
| Family Size | Yearly Gross Income | Monthly Gross Income | Twice Per Month Gross Income | Every Two Weeks Gross Income | Weekly Gross Income |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | $26,973 | $2,248 | $1,124 | $1,038 | $519 |
| 2 | $36,482 | $3,041 | $1,521 | $1,404 | $702 |
| 3 | $45,991 | $3,833 | $1,917 | $1,769 | $885 |
| 4 | $55,500 | $4,625 | $2,313 | $2,135 | $1,068 |
| 5 | $65,009 | $5,418 | $2,709 | $2,501 | $1,251 |
| 6 | $74,518 | $6,210 | $3,105 | $2,867 | $1,434 |
| 7 | $84,027 | $7,003 | $3,502 | $3,232 | $1,616 |
| 8 | $93,536 | $7,795 | $3,898 | $3,598 | $1,799 |
| For each additional family member, add: | +$9,509 | +$793 | +$397 | +$366 | +$183 |
How to Apply
We encourage all eligible families to submit a new application for school meals prior to the start of each new school year. However, applications are accepted anytime throughout the school year.
The application can be submitted online. Paper applications are also available below and at every school office and lunchroom.
For this school year, a universal form includes:
- Free and Reduced-Price Meal Application
- Family Income Survey
Online Application
This universal form is called the School Meals Application (or Child Nutrition Eligibility and Education Benefit or CNEEB).
Online application is available on MySchoolApps (effective August 7, 2024).
Paper Application
Download the instructions and applications below. Complete and accurate applications are required for timely processing.
Completed paper applications can be sent via email, fax, or mail to Culinary Services:
- Email: culinaryservices@seattleschools.org
- Fax: 206-252-0664
- Culinary Services – MS: 32-372 Seattle Public Schools
2445 3rd Ave S
P.O. Box 34165
Seattle, WA 98124
Translations Child Nutrition Eligibility and Education Benefit (CNEEB) Application and Letter to Households