Applications for Free School Meals and Uniform Allowance in NI for the upcoming academic year are now open.
On Twitter on Monday, the Education Authority added: "As well as new applicants, parents of children who are already in receipt of FSMUA will need to apply again for this school year.
"You will need to register an account to apply. You will then be able to log back in to check your application."
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You can apply online via this link, or you can contact the Free School Meals and Uniform Service for a paper application on 028 9041 8044 or email mealsanduniform@eani.org.uk.
The Education Authority website says: "Get ready now for your 2023-24 application for Free School Meals and Uniform Allowance
"If you are in receipt of one of the following:
- Income Support;
- Income Based Jobseeker’s Allowance;
- Income Related Employment and Support Allowance;
- Guarantee Element of State Pension Credit;
"you will need a Proof of Benefits letter when you apply for Free School Meals and Uniform for the 2023-24 school year.
"Request one now via Get a proof of benefit letter. It will take at least five days to be sent to you. Once you receive the letter keep it securely.
"You must upload a copy of the letter when you apply. It must be dated no earlier than the beginning of the month before you submit your application.
"If you receive Tax Credits or Universal Credit you do not require the above letter."
Eligibility
The Education Authority says: "Parent(s)/Guardian(s) can apply if your son or daughter is in full-time education and if you are in receipt of one of the following benefits:-
- Income Support;
- Income Based Jobseeker’s Allowance;
- Income Related Employment and Support Allowance;
- Guarantee Element of State Pension Credit;
- Child Tax Credit or Working Tax Credit with an annual taxable income of £16,190 or less;
- Universal credit and have net household earnings not exceeding £14,000 per year."
"Or:-
- if you are an Asylum Seeker supported by the Home Office Asylum Support Assessment Team (ASAT); or
- if your child has a statement of special educational needs and is designated to require a special diet."
"Student(s) can apply:
- if the course you are studying is a full-time course, and
- you are receiving benefit in your own name."
The Education Authority says they will review the information provided and will inform you of their decision within five weeks.
If you have not submitted the correct information, they will email you - check your email junk or spam folder.
For more information, CLICK HERE.
Info regarding eligibility for Free School Meals/Uniform Grants in NI can be found HERE.
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