For July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027, a Tier I Texas day home is reimbursed $1.74 per breakfast, $3.31 per lunch or supper, and $0.98 per snack. Tier II homes receive $0.62 / $1.99 / $0.27. Child care centers are reimbursed by each child’s eligibility category — up to $2.54 per breakfast and $4.76 per lunch at the free rate. USDA adjusts these rates every July 1.
Day home rates (July 2026 – June 2027)
| Meal | Tier I | Tier II |
|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | $1.74 | $0.62 |
| Lunch / Supper | $3.31 | $1.99 |
| Snack | $0.98 | $0.27 |
What that means in practice: a Tier I home serving breakfast, lunch, and one snack to six children on 21 claim days is reimbursed roughly $760 a month — for meals you’re already preparing.
Child care center rates (July 2026 – June 2027)
| Meal | Free | Reduced-price | Paid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breakfast | $2.54 | $2.24 | $0.42 |
| Lunch / Supper | $4.76 | $4.36 | $0.45 |
| Snack | $1.30 | $0.65 | $0.12 |
Center rates don’t include the separate value of USDA Foods (or cash in lieu), which adds to lunch and supper reimbursement.
Frequently asked questions
Who decides if my day home is Tier I or Tier II?
Your sponsor determines and documents your tier at enrollment, based on your home’s location, local school or census data, or your household income. Ask us to check — many providers qualify for Tier I without realizing it.
How and when do I get paid?
You submit meal counts to your sponsor monthly; the sponsor claims them with the Texas Department of Agriculture and passes the reimbursement through to you.
Do the rates change?
Yes — USDA adjusts them every July 1 for the new program year. This page reflects the July 2026 – June 2027 rates.
Get enrolled
Nutriservice sponsors day homes and daycare centers across Texas. Contact us or call 972-772-3200.