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Eligibility

Family looking at the camera.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.

Head Start FAQs

Head Start programs offer families support services and the chance to participate as full partners in their child's education. Parents can refer to these FAQs to learn more about the national program.

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.

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.

Head Start Eligibility Verification Form

Programs may use the Head Start Eligibility Verification Form as a component of the eligibility determination record alongside copies of documents or statements deemed necessary to verify eligibility.