How does Head Start / Early Head Start work?

Programs run year-round, up to 10 hours a day. Early Head Start offers center-based care or home visits, plus meals and health screenings Centers are run by community organizations and nonprofits across NYC Both programs can connect your family with employment, housing, adult education, and health support

Am I eligible for Head Start / Early Head Start?

Your family may qualify for Head Start or Early Head Start if any of the following apply to you: You live in temporary housing You currently receive cash assistance, SNAP (food stamps), or SSI (Supplemental Security Income) You’re enrolling a child who is in foster care Your household income is at or below these levels: Household size Yearly income 2 $21,640 3 $27,320 4 $33,000 5 $38,680 6 $44,360 7 $50,040 8 $55,720 For each additional person: +$5,680 You may still qualify even if your income is over the limit. If you spend more than 30 percent of your income on housing costs, Head Start and Early Head Start can subtract those costs when calculating your income. You will need to provide documents showing your housing expenses.

Head Start & Early Head Start

How it works

Head Start and Early Head Start are free early childhood education programs for low-income families with kids ages 5 and under

Programs run year-round, up to 10 hours a day.
Early Head Start offers center-based care or home visits, plus meals and health screenings
Centers are run by community organizations and nonprofits across NYC
Both programs can connect your family with employment, housing, adult education, and health support

Eligibility requirements

Your family may qualify for Head Start or Early Head Start if any of the following apply to you:

You live in temporary housing
You currently receive cash assistance, SNAP (food stamps), or SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
You’re enrolling a child who is in foster care
Your household income is at or below these levels:

Household size	Yearly income
2	$21,640
3	$27,320
4	$33,000
5	$38,680
6	$44,360
7	$50,040
8	$55,720
For each additional person:	+$5,680

You may still qualify even if your income is over the limit. If you spend more than 30 percent of your income on housing costs, Head Start and Early Head Start can subtract those costs when calculating your income. You will need to provide documents showing your housing expenses.

Immigration status requirements

You won’t be asked for proof of citizenship or immigration status when applying for Head Start or Early Head Start.

How to apply

To find and apply to a Head Start or Early Head Start program, use the Head Start Center Locator to find a program near you.

Find a program

Get help

Visit HeadStart.gov to learn more.

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Last Updated March 11, 2026

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Free education and services for families with kids from birth to age 5