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Massachusetts Head Start

Massachusetts Head Start

Massachusetts Head Start and Early Head Start are free early childhood programs for pregnant women and for children from birth to age 5, including children in foster care and homeless children.

It offers center-based family child care, and home visiting options on a part-day, part-year, or full-time basis. Children 3 to 4 years of age are eligible to participate with priority given to 4 years old.

Both programs are for families with limited income below 130% of the poverty line. That’s about $2,960 per month for a family of three. Children from families receiving public assistance are categorically eligible regardless of income.

FAQ

What is the income limit for Head Start in Massachusetts?

Income limits as a percentage of the federal poverty level, by household size
Household SizeIncome Limit
1$1,729
2$2,344
3$2,960
4$3,575
5$4,190
6$4,806
7$5,421
8$6,036
The income limits are presented as dollar amounts derived from a percentage of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) for each household size in 2026.

How do I apply for Head Start in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, Head Start and Early Head Start applications are handled directly by local lead agencies rather than through a single statewide portal.

To find a Head Start or Early Head Start program near you, call

Massachusetts Department of Early Education and Care
Head Start State Collaboration Office
(617) 988-6600

SingleMotherGuide.com is an independent state-by-state reference guide and is not affiliated with any government agency. Program amounts and income limits are compiled from official federal and state sources, which are cited on the page, and are reviewed periodically and updated as those sources change.

The information is provided for general guidance and is not legal or financial advice. The administering agency makes the final determination of eligibility and benefit amounts. To report an error, please contact us.

Figures on this page are compiled from the public sources cited above and may change; refer to the cited sources for the most current information.

Last updated
Updated by
Ada Hu
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