Free School Meals
Information on applying for Free School Meals.
How do I qualify for free school meals?
You must be in receipt of either Income Support, Jobseeker's Allowance (Income-Based), an income-related Employment and Support Allowance (ESA was introduced on 27 October 2008); Guaranteed Element of State Pension Credit, Child Tax Credit (income related) or receiving support under Part VI of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999.
What if I have Income Support/Job Seeker's Allowance (Income-Based)?
A fully completed free school meal application must be submitted which indicates which benefit is being received i.e. Income Support or Job Seeker's Allowance (Income-Based). Job Seeker's Allowance (Contribution-Based) does not entitle you to receive free school meals.
What if I receive Child Tax/State Pension Credit?
A fully completed Free School Meal application must be submitted which indicates that Child Tax/State Pension Credit is being received. There must be no Working Tax being received, and the Annual Income for the family as shown on the document must be no greater than £16190 (Subject to Government change) from April 2012. You can check which tax credits you receive, the amount of annual income and whether you have any Working Tax Credit by reading your TC602 document provided by the Inland Revenue.
What if I am an Asylum Seeker?
Those receiving support under part IV of the Immigration and Asylum Act 1999 should complete a free school meal application without providing a National Insurance Number. Instead claimants should provide their NASS Reference Number to confirm entitlement.
Does receipt of Working Tax Credit, qualify you to claim free school meals?
No, the Government does not allow us to recognise any other benefits other than those listed above. We will check with Government agencies for confirmation of your correct eligibility.
Anchor Point:applyHow do I apply?
Please collect an application from School or print out, form the top right of this page, and complete an application form. Please return to the School Secretary or, during school holidays, The Director of People, Free School Meals Office, Council House, Manor Square, Solihull, B91 3QB.
Who should fill in the application form?
The application form MUST be completed by the parent/partner/guardian who is claiming for the child/ren and who is receiving the relevant benefit or credit.
Is it necessary to re-apply each year?
No, providing all details remain the same.
What if my child changes school?
A new application form must be completed for the new school.
What happens when my benefit ceases?
Free meals must stop as soon as your benefit or credit ceases.
Who do I inform if my benefit or credit ceases?
You should inform the school secretary or the Free School Meals Office on 0121 704 6611 or email freeschoolmeals@solihull.gov.uk. Alternatively, you can complete the Change of Circumstances form.
What happens if free school meals continue to be taken once my benefit ceases?
You will become liable for a charge for all free school meals taken from the date eligibility ceased.
How will the school know my child does not have to pay for school meals?
Completed applications where possible, should be returned to the relevant school. If more than one school is involved please make each school aware that another school is also on the claim. During holidays applications can be returned to the Free School Meals Office at the address above. (See how do I apply?) When we have approved your application, we will send you a confirmation letter which you may need to take to school.
If I have any queries with regard to entitlement or completion of the application form, what should I do?
Contact the Free School Mealson 0121 704 6611 or email freeschoolmeals@solihull.gov.uk or speak to the School Secretary.
Further Information
- If you have mislaid or not received your TC602 document please telephone the Tax Credit Helpline on 0845 300 3900.
If you wish to discuss free school meals or for further advice, contact Lynne Rowson (SAST) on 704 6611.
Contact Details
For further information about free school meals,
Telephone: 0121 704 6611
Email: freeschoolmeals@solihull.gov.uk
Director for People, Free School Meals Office
Council House
Manor Square
Solihull B91 3QB