Application for Educational Benefits

The Application for Educational Benefits (formerly known as Free and Reduced) can be completed online NOW.

1. Visit LINQConnect.com and look for the Meal Application section near the upper right corner.
2. You can change the language of the form by using the dropdown menu immediately below the START MEAL APPLICATION button. Note that Hmong and Somali languages will only be available in paper applications.
3. Follow the instructions to complete your online application.
4. Look for the dark green NEXT buttons to move forward.

EVERY FAMILY. EVERY YEAR. ALL families with children enrolled in the Minneapolis Public Schools district should complete an Application for Educational Benefits each year.

• Generates millions of dollars in funding for Minneapolis Public Schools and our schools, students, and families.
• Determines benefits for students and families such free bus cards and discounted internet service. All families are strongly encouraged to complete an application for their household.

Additional Information

• One application needed per family each year.
• This form used to be called the “Free and Reduced Lunch” form.
• The income thresholds are higher than in some programs, so many families are surprised to find they DO qualify.
• If you wish to decline benefits, families will need to so on the paper application, or they can email info.cws@mpls.k12.mn.us with their student's names and decline benefits that way.

For Schools