Income Eligibility
Eligibility is based on age, residency, and family income.
Every child is checked two ways: first age & residency, then family income (or another qualifying factor). Both tables below show what we look for.
Age & residency
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Age | Your child must turn 4 on or before August 31 of the program year (2026-2027). |
| Residency | Your child must live in North Carolina. Harnett County families apply through this office. |
| Citizenship | A child of any immigration status may apply; this does not affect eligibility. |
Family income (75% of State Median Income)
Most children from families whose gross income is at or below 75% of the State Median Income (SMI) are income-eligible. Income is total household gross income (before taxes) from all sources.
Other ways to qualify
A child may qualify regardless of income if they are a dependent of an active-duty military member (or one seriously injured or killed on active duty). A limited number of children above the income limit may qualify when there is a documented factor such as a developmental disability, chronic health condition, limited English proficiency, or educational need.
Check your eligibility — apply now →For the most current details, visit our main website.