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CHILDREN β€” CA

πŸ§’ Head Start Program in Merced, Merced, California β€” 2026

Eligibility, income limits, local offices and how to apply for Merced residents

Free preschool programMax Benefit
1-866-763-6481Helpline
CAState
100% FPLFPL Threshold
πŸ“Š 2026 Income Limits β€” Merced, California
Household SizeMonthly LimitAnnual Limit
1 person$1,632/mo$19,578/yr
2 people$2,215/mo$26,572/yr
3 people$2,798/mo$33,566/yr
4 people ← typical$3,482/mo$41,782/yr
5 people$4,065/mo$48,778/yr
6 people$4,648/mo$55,774/yr
7 people$5,231/mo$62,770/yr
8 people$5,814/mo$69,766/yr

Source: HHS Federal Poverty Guidelines 2026. Effective January 2026.

πŸ“ How to Apply β€” Merced, California
1
Check Eligibility
Income at or below 100% FPL. Family of 4 in Merced: $3,482/month in 2026.
2
Apply Online β€” Fastest
Visit eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator β€” available 24/7.
3
Apply by Phone β€” 1-866-763-6481
Call Mon–Fri business hours for Merced residents.
4
Apply In-Person β€” Merced Office
Visit offices near Merced. Walk-ins accepted.
πŸ“‹ Documents Required β€” Merced
  • Child birth certificate
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of residency
  • Immunization records
❓ FAQs β€” Head Start Program in Merced
Who qualifies for Head Start Program in Merced, California?
Residents of Merced, Merced, California with income at or below 100% FPL. Family of 4: $3,482/month. Call 1-866-763-6481.
How to apply for Head Start Program in Merced?
Apply online at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator, call 1-866-763-6481, or visit Merced office.
Is there a Head Start Program office in Merced?
The nearest office is in Merced. Visit office locator for exact address and hours.
πŸ”” California Alerts 2026
Free alerts when Head Start Program changes in California.