Eligibility and Enrollment

Is my child eligible?
How do I register my child?

Head Start and Early Head Start are family and child development programs for low-income families. Family income is one key factor in determining eligibility. The federal poverty guidelines are used to evaluate family income. In addition, Early Head Start and Head Start programs must make at least 10% of their enrollment opportunities available to children with disabilities who are eligible for Part C services under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act in Minnesota.

You are eligible for Head Start and Early Head Start services if you meet the income guidelines and:

You have children from 6 weeks through 5 years, or
You are pregnant, or
You have children with special needs with an Individual Education Plan (IEP), or Individual Family Services Plan (IFSP), or
You have foster children with high risk factors, or
You are a parent with a disability and/or possessing disabling conditions.

For some program options (Full Day & Early Head Start) a child care subsidy is required.

Federal Income Guidelines 2013
Family Size	Max Income
1	$11,490
2	$15,510
3	$19,530
4	$23,550
5	$27,570
6	$31,590
7	$35,610
8	$39,630
For each additional person, add $4,020.

Source: HHS Poverty Guidelines