Head Start & Early Head Start

What is Head Start & Early Head Start?

Head Start and Early Head Start are federally funded programs that provide free or low-cost preschool and early childhood services to low-income families. They offer more than just childcare—they include education, meals, health checkups, and help for parents.

Head Start serves children ages 3 to 5 (and sometimes younger). Early Head Start serves infants and toddlers from birth to age 3, plus pregnant women.

These are local programs. The federal government funds them, but local organizations (like nonprofits, schools, and community centers) run them in your area.

Who qualifies?

Your family may qualify if your household income is at or below the federal poverty line. Here are the 2026 poverty guidelines:

Contiguous U.S.:

• 1 person: $15,960
• 2 people: $21,640
• 3 people: $27,320
• 4 people: $33,000
• 5 people: $38,680
• 6 people: $44,360
• 7 people: $50,040
• 8 people: $55,720

Alaska:

• 1 person: $19,950
• 2 people: $27,050
• 3 people: $34,150
• 4 people: $41,250
• 5 people: $48,350
• 6 people: $55,450
• 7 people: $62,550
• 8 people: $69,650

Hawaii:

• 1 person: $18,360
• 2 people: $24,890
• 3 people: $31,420
• 4 people: $37,950
• 5 people: $44,480
• 6 people: $51,010
• 7 people: $57,540
• 8 people: $64,070

Your income must be at or below these numbers. Some programs may also serve families just above the poverty line if funding allows.

Other families may qualify, such as:

• Families receiving public assistance
• Children in foster care
• Homeless families

Each local program has its own enrollment priorities, so ask about your specific situation.

What do you get?

Head Start and Early Head Start programs provide:

• Classroom or center-based care with learning activities (for Head Start, typically 3 to 5 days per week, mornings or full days depending on the program)
• Meals and snacks that meet nutrition standards
• Health and dental screenings and referrals for care
• Mental health services and behavioral support
• Parent involvement in your child's learning and program decisions
• Family services like help with employment, housing, or other needs
• Transition support as your child moves to kindergarten or into Head Start

All services are free or at very low cost. Programs are designed to help children be ready for school and to support your whole family.

How to apply

Because Head Start is run locally, there is no single national application. Here's what to do:

1. 1
   Step 1: Find your local programSearch ECLKC Head Start Locator or contact your state's administration office for a list of programs near you.
2. 2
   Step 2: Contact the program directly to ask about enrollment, openings, and their application process.
3. 3
   Step 3: Complete their application formThis may be on paper or online, depending on your program.
4. 4
   Step 4: Provide documents showing:

• Proof of income (pay stubs, tax returns, or benefits letters)
• Proof of residency or address
• Child's birth certificate
• Immunization records (if enrolling)
• Proof of citizenship or immigration status

Applications are free. The program staff will help you gather what you need.

What happens after you apply?

Once you submit your application, the local program will:

1. 1
   Step 1: Review your information to verify eligibility.
2. 2
   Step 2: Contact you with a decision, usually within a few weeks.
3. 3
   Step 3: Offer enrollment if you qualify and a spot is available. Priority may go to families with the lowest income or other factors.
4. 4
   Step 4: Schedule orientation so you and your child can visit, meet staff, and learn about the program.
5. 5
   Step 5: Start services on the agreed date.

Wait lists are common because demand is high. If you don't get a spot right away, ask if you can be waitlisted and when you might be contacted.

Renewals and recertification

You must recertify your eligibility each year. The program will usually ask you to:

• Provide updated income information
• Confirm your contact details and household changes
• Update health and emergency forms

Your program will notify you when it's time to recertify. It's important to respond on time to keep your child enrolled.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Missing the application deadlineSome programs have specific enrollment periods.
• Not providing documentsHave proof of income and residency ready.
• Not updating the program about changesIf your address, phone, or income changes, tell them right away.
• Assuming you don't qualifyIf your income is close to the limit, apply anyway. Each program's rules may vary.

Related programs

If your child doesn't get into Head Start, or for additional help:

• Child Care Assistance helps pay for childcare so you can work or attend school. Rules vary by state.
• SNAP (the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) provides money to buy food.
• WIC (the Women, Infants, and Children program) offers nutrition support, checks, and services to pregnant women, new parents, and young children.
• Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP) cover health care for low-income children.

Use our screener tool to find other benefits your family may qualify for.

Looking for state-specific information?

Each state runs its own Head Start and Early Head Start programs. Find your state's office to learn about programs and enrollment in your area.