ERSEA Services from a Systems Lens
Systems are the backbone to offering quality ERSEA services. This video explores the elements of ERSEA and shows how they intersect with the Head Start management systems.
Eligibility
These resources cover how Head Start programs assess the needs of communities and recruit children and families most in need. They also provide insight on which program option best meets the needs of each child and family. Use these resources to develop eligibility services that ensure consistent and appropriate enrollment practices.
For more ERSEA resources, check out recruitment, selection, enrollment, and attendance.
SNAP as Public Assistance for Head Start Eligibility FAQs
Read answers to FAQs about the guidance that adds the receipt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits to Head Start eligibility criteria.
SNAP Eligibility for Head Start Services
Learn more about how the receipt of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits now qualifies families for Head Start eligibility.
ERSEA Assessment Tool
This assessment tool will help programs improve ERSEA services by identifying and enrolling the children most in need of Head Start services. The tool can also help programs achieve and maintain full enrollment.
Family Income Guidelines: Military Income
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) provides information that will assist programs in determining the gross income of those families with members in the armed forces. Family service staff will find this information beneficial in determining the eligibility of children of military families for enrollment in the Head Start program.
Poverty Guidelines and Determining Eligibility for Participation in Head Start Programs
The HHS Poverty Guidelines are used to determine income eligibility for participation in Head Start programs. Program staff may refer to these resources when working with families.
Extending and Aligning Redetermination Periods
Research on continuity of care has found that instability is high with low-income families. Extending eligibility redeterminations to 12 months or more provides financial stability for families. It also gives continuous early care and education for children.
1302.12 Determining, verifying, and documenting eligibility.
Review the HSPPS requirements around determining and documenting families’ eligibility for Head Start program services.
1302 Subpart A—Eligibility, Recruitment, Selection, Enrollment, and Attendance
This subpart includes requirements related to program eligibility, recruitment, selection, enrollment, and attendance (ERSEA), as well as standards around suspension, expulsion, and fees.
Head Start Eligibility Verification Form
Programs may use the Head Start Eligibility Verification Form as a component of the eligibility determination record alongside copies of documents or statements deemed necessary to verify eligibility.