How to Find and Apply for Head Start Near You

Head Start is a free federal program that provides early childhood education, health services, and family support to low-income children. To find a program near you, visit the Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center or contact your local Head Start agency directly. Applying is free, and only the Head Start agency decides if your family qualifies.

Who Head Start Is For

Head Start serves low-income families with young children. There are two main programs:

• Head Start: For children ages 3 to 5 years old.
• Early Head Start: For children from birth to age 3, and for pregnant women.

To qualify, your family's income must be at or below the federal poverty line. Some Head Start programs also serve families with income up to 130% of the poverty line. Only the Head Start agency can decide if your family qualifies.

2026 Income Limits for Head Start

These are the federal poverty guidelines for 2026. Your state or program may have different rules.

These figures are annual household income. If your family is larger than 8 people, ask your local Head Start program what the income limit is.

How to Find Head Start Programs Near You

Use the official locator tool. Visit the Early Childhood Learning & Knowledge Center to search for Head Start programs in your area by zip code or address.

Contact your local agency. Call your city or county's office of human services or social services. They can tell you which Head Start programs serve your area and help you get in touch with them.

Ask your child's school or doctor. Schools and pediatricians often know about local Head Start programs and can provide contact information.

Search online. Try searching "Head Start near me" or "[Your city name] Head Start" in your web browser.

How to Apply for Head Start

Step 1: Contact the program. Call or visit the Head Start program you want to apply to. Ask about their application process and any upcoming enrollment periods. Many programs have waiting lists, so apply early.

Step 2: Gather your documents. Have the following ready:

• Proof of your child's age (birth certificate)
• Proof of your family's income (recent tax return, pay stubs, or benefits statement)
• Proof of your address (utility bill or lease)
• Social Security numbers for family members
• Your child's health records and immunization information

Step 3: Complete the application. Fill out the Head Start application form. The program staff will help you if you need it. You do not need to pay any fee to apply.

Step 4: Attend an interview. Many programs ask you to meet with staff to discuss your family's needs and goals. This helps them understand how Head Start can best help your child and family.

Step 5: Wait for a decision. The program will tell you if your child is accepted.

What Happens Next

After you apply, the program will review your information. This can take several weeks or longer, especially if there is a waiting list. The program will contact you with a decision.

If your child is accepted, the program will tell you when to start and what to bring on the first day. If your child is not accepted, ask if your child can be added to a waiting list.

What Head Start Provides

Head Start programs offer a range of services, including:

• Early childhood education: Classroom learning and school readiness activities.
• Health services: Health screenings, dental care, and vision exams.
• Nutrition: Meals and snacks.
• Family support: Help with housing, job training, and other services families need.
• Mental health services: Support for children and families.

Services may vary by program. Ask your local program what they offer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying too late: Many programs have waiting lists. Apply as soon as you can.
• Not bringing all required documents: Have proof of income, your child's age, and your address ready. Missing documents can slow down your application.
• Not asking about other programs: If you do not qualify for Head Start, ask about other early childhood programs in your area.
• Assuming your family does not qualify: Only the Head Start agency can decide. Some programs serve families with income up to 130% of the poverty line. Apply and let them decide.

Related Help

If you cannot find a Head Start program near you, or if your family does not qualify, look for other early childhood programs in your area. Many communities offer subsidized preschool and childcare assistance through state programs.

You can also use our benefits screener to learn about other programs your family may qualify for.

Summary

Head Start is a free program for low-income families with young children. Start by using the official locator tool to find programs near you. Gather your documents, apply early, and let the program decide if your family qualifies. If Head Start is not available or you do not qualify, explore other early childhood programs in your area.