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National School Breakfast and Lunch Program for Illinois


The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) are voluntary programs administered by the Illinois State Board of Education in the state of Illinois. NSLP and SBP are available to all public schools, private schools, and residential child care institutions which agree to operate a non-profit program offering lunches meeting Federal requirements to all children in attendance.

The National School Lunch Program (NSLP) and School Breakfast Program (SBP) are voluntary programs administered by the Illinois State Board of Education in the state of Illinois. NSLP and SBP are available to all public schools, private schools, and residential child care institutions which agree to operate a non-profit program offering lunches meeting Federal requirements to all children in attendance.


To be eligible for this benefit program, you must be a resident of the state of Illinois and all of the following:

  • A parent or primary caregiver, and
  • Responsible for a child(ren) who attends school (high school or under).

In order to qualify, you must have an annual household income (before taxes) that is below the following amounts:

Annual Household Income Limits (before taxes)
Household Size*Maximum Income Level (Per Year)
1$26,973
2$36,482
3$45,991
4$55,500
5$65,009
6$74,518
7$84,027
8$93,536

*For households with more than eight people, add $9,509 per additional person. Always check with the appropriate managing agency to ensure the most accurate guidelines.


To apply for free or reduced price meals, contact your child's school. A listing of your state's schools can be found here.


For more information on the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs operating in Illinois, please visit the School Nutrition Programs page.

Or send an email to:
CNP@isbe.net

Phone calls can be made to the Nutrition Programs Division of the Illinois State Board of Education at 1-800-545-7892 (in Illinois) or 217-782-2491.