Eligibility Reference Sheet
Use these reference charts to identify the types of documents that can be used to verify Head Start eligibility.
Eligibility
These resources cover how Head Start programs assess the needs of communities and recruit children and families most in need. They also provide insight on which program option best meets the needs of each child and family. Use these resources to develop eligibility services that ensure consistent and appropriate enrollment practices.
For more ERSEA resources, check out recruitment, selection, enrollment, and attendance.
ERSEA Services from a Systems Lens
Systems are the backbone to offering quality ERSEA services. This video explores the elements of ERSEA and shows how they intersect with the Head Start management systems.
SNAP as Public Assistance for Head Start Eligibility FAQs
Read answers to FAQs about the guidance that adds the receipt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to Head Start eligibility criteria.
SNAP Eligibility for Head Start Services
Learn more about how the receipt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits now qualifies families for Head Start eligibility.
ERSEA Assessment Tool
This assessment tool will help programs improve ERSEA services by identifying and enrolling the children most in need of Head Start services. The tool can also help programs achieve and maintain full enrollment.
Frequently Asked Questions Related to the Poverty Guidelines and Poverty
The poverty guidelines, which are issued every year in the Federal Register by the Department of Health and Human Services, are a simplified version of the federal poverty thresholds used for administrative purposes. Grantees often have questions regarding who is eligible for enrollment in Head Start and other social services programs. These frequently asked questions will assist them in understanding how to use the guidelines to assess eligibility and other questions they may have.
Family Income Guidelines: Military Income
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides information that will assist programs in determining the gross income of those families with members in the armed forces. Family service staff will find this information beneficial in determining the eligibility of children of military families for enrollment in the Head Start program.
Poverty Guidelines and Determining Eligibility for Participation in Head Start Programs
The HHS Poverty Guidelines are used to determine income eligibility for participation in Head Start programs. Program staff may refer to these resources when working with families.
Extending and Aligning Redetermination Periods
Research on continuity of care has found that instability is high with low-income families. Extending eligibility redeterminations to 12 months or more provides financial stability for families. It also gives continuous early care and education for children.
1302.12 Determining, verifying, and documenting eligibility.
Review the HSPPS requirements around determining and documenting families’ eligibility for Head Start program services.