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We encourage families to complete the Application for Educational Benefits. Completing this short form not only provides direct benefits to families—such as summer grocery benefits, utility discounts, and test fee waivers—but also ensures that schools receive critical federal funding.

Why It Matters
While Minnesota now provides free school meals for all students at schools participating in the National School Lunch Program, families are still encouraged to complete the Application for Educational Benefits. These applications determine eligibility categories and allow schools to receive the proper state and federal reimbursements.

Multiple Ways to Qualify

• Families may qualify if they:
• Meet income requirements
• Participate in programs such as SNAP, MFIP, or FDPIR
• Have children in foster care, Head Start, or who are homeless or migrant
• Are directly certified through qualifying assistance programs

Apply Anytime
Applications can be submitted at any point during the school year, including by families who experience temporary income loss.

How to Apply
Families can complete the Application for Educational Benefits directly here. (Click on the Application for Educational Benefits tab.)