£500 Boost Confirmed For Universal Credit Claimants — Are You Eligible?
A major change to the Universal Credit support scheme is on the way — and it will mean a £500 boost for many families. Under the new plan, all Universal Credit claimants will soon be able to claim free school meals for their children.
This expansion will benefit an estimated half a million additional children and is expected to help lift 100,000 children out of poverty.
With the rising cost of living continuing to put pressure on household budgets, this move is designed to provide financial relief while ensuring children get access to nutritious meals every school day. So, are you eligible? Here’s everything you need to know.
What’s Changing?
Until now, to qualify for free school meals, a household had to be earning less than £7,400 a year (after tax and excluding benefits). Under the new scheme, income thresholds will no longer apply. If you’re claiming Universal Credit, your children will automatically qualify for free school meals — regardless of how much you earn.
This change will simplify the eligibility process and make it easier for families in need to access support without the red tape of income testing.
In addition to helping reduce child hunger, the policy is expected to save parents an estimated £500 a year per child — making it a meaningful financial boost for families already stretched thin by everyday costs.
Financial Impact on Families
The financial benefits of this policy are clear. Here’s what it could mean for families:
| Household Scenario | Annual Savings Per Child | Total Annual Savings |
|---|---|---|
| Single-child household | £500 | £500 |
| Two children | £500 x 2 | £1,000 |
| Three children | £500 x 3 | £1,500 |
For families with multiple school-aged children, this change could represent a significant reduction in the cost of living — freeing up income for other essential expenses such as energy bills, clothing, and housing costs.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the £500 boost via free school meals, the rules are simple:
- You must be receiving Universal Credit.
- No income threshold will apply — all Universal Credit claimants are eligible.
- Your child must be enrolled in a state-funded school in England.
Families who previously didn’t qualify because their income exceeded the old £7,400 cap will now be included.
It’s important to note that families will still need to apply for free school meals through their local authority or their child’s school. The application process will typically involve confirming that you are in receipt of Universal Credit, often by providing your National Insurance number.
Timeline for Implementation
Here is when you can expect this support to roll out:
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Policy announcement | June 2025 |
| Start of application period | Summer 2026 |
| Full implementation in schools | September 2026 (start of the academic year) |
Families are advised to check with their local authority or school ahead of the new school year to ensure they complete any required application steps in time.
Broader Impact on Child Poverty
Expanding access to free school meals is seen as a powerful tool in tackling child poverty. Providing one guaranteed nutritious meal a day helps:
- Improve children’s ability to concentrate and learn.
- Support better physical and mental health.
- Reduce financial stress for low-income families.
- Ensure no child goes hungry at school.
This change is expected to make a real difference to families who may be struggling to afford consistent healthy meals at home. Additionally, by lifting 100,000 children out of poverty, the initiative aligns with wider efforts to create fairer opportunities for all children.
How to Apply
While eligibility will become automatic for Universal Credit claimants, families will still need to submit an application through their:
- Local authority; or
- Child’s school.
Applications will typically open in advance of the September 2026 school year. Parents are encouraged to apply as early as possible to ensure they can take full advantage of this new support from the start of the term.
The confirmed £500 boost for Universal Credit claimants through the expansion of free school meals is a much-needed step in supporting families during difficult economic times.
It will provide meaningful financial relief while ensuring that more children can access healthy, nourishing meals at school — setting them up to learn and thrive.
Families are encouraged to stay informed and be ready to apply ahead of the September 2026 rollout to make the most of this valuable new support. In the meantime, this move represents a clear commitment to reducing child poverty and helping struggling parents across the UK.
FAQs
When will the expanded free school meals begin?
The program is set to begin in September 2026, aligning with the start of the 2026/27 academic year.
How do I apply for free school meals if I receive Universal Credit?
You’ll need to apply through your local authority or your child’s school. You will usually be asked to confirm your receipt of Universal Credit.
How much will I save with this new policy?
Families can expect to save up to £500 per child per year on school meal costs — a substantial saving, especially for larger families.
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