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Homeβ€ΊIowaβ€ΊPolk Countyβ€ΊHead Start Programβ€ΊDes Moines
CHILDREN β€” IA

πŸ§’ Head Start Program in Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa β€” 2026

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

Free preschool programMax Benefit
1-866-763-6481Helpline
IAState
100% FPLFPL Threshold
πŸ“Š 2026 Income Limits β€” Des Moines, Iowa
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€” Des Moines, Iowa
1
Check Eligibility
Income at or below 100% FPL. Family of 4 in Des Moines: $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 Des Moines residents.
4
Apply In-Person β€” Polk County Office
Visit offices near Des Moines. Walk-ins accepted.
πŸ“‹ Documents Required β€” Des Moines
  • Child birth certificate
  • Proof of income
  • Proof of residency
  • Immunization records
❓ FAQs β€” Head Start Program in Des Moines
Who qualifies for Head Start Program in Des Moines, Iowa?
Residents of Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa 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 Des Moines?
Apply online at eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov/center-locator, call 1-866-763-6481, or visit Polk County office.
Is there a Head Start Program office in Des Moines?
The nearest office is in Polk County. Visit office locator for exact address and hours.
πŸ”” Iowa Alerts 2026
Free alerts when Head Start Program changes in Iowa.