No. You or your child do not have to be U.S. citizens to qualify for free or reduced-price meals.

Children in households participating in the federal Women, Infants and Children program may be eligible for free or reduced-price meals, but you will need to complete an application.

Yes. Children who meet the definition of homeless, runaway, or migrant qualify for free meals. Check with your school for more information and to see if your children qualify.

Yes, foster children that are under the legal responsibility of a foster care agency or court are eligible for free meals. Any foster child in the household is eligible for free meals, regardless of income.

List the amount that you normally receive. If you normally get overtime, include it. If you have lost a job or had your hours or wages reduced, use your current income.

You must include all people living in your household, related or not, such as grandparents, other relatives, or friends, who share income and expenses. You must include yourself and all children who are living with you. If you live with other people who are economically independent, do not include them.

Yes. You may be asked to send written proof by the Office of Food and Nutrition Service.

Eligibility notices should be kept for the entire school year in order to apply for additional benefits. Call the Food and Nutrition Service Office at 410-313-7134 to request a copy.

Yes. Families whose household situations change may submit a new FARMs application at any time during the school year.

Applications are evaluated solely on the number of household members and gross income – no other circumstances can be considered. If you believe your gross income (amount before deductions) is at or less than the maximum income limits for your household size that is listed in the Income Eligibility Guidelines, you should contact the Food and Nutrition Service Office to be certain that you have completed your application correctly.