Families across Scotland can now apply for a payment of more than £330 to help cover the costs of children starting primary school, with applications opening from 1 June 2026.

The Best Start Grant School Age Payment is available to eligible families with children born between 1 March 2021 and 28 February 2022 and is designed to help with the expenses that often come with beginning primary one.

The payment is unique to Scotland and can be used however families choose, whether that is buying school uniforms, stationery, bags, shoes or helping cover the costs of school activities and trips.

Starting school is an exciting milestone for children and parents alike, but it can also place additional pressure on household budgets at a time when many families continue to face rising living costs.

Eligibility is based on a child’s age and when they first become old enough to start primary school, which is usually between the ages of four and five.

Families do not need to wait until their child actually starts school before making an application.

Parents and carers who are choosing to defer their child’s school start date, or whose child will not attend school, are still eligible to receive the payment provided they apply before the closing date of 28 February 2027.

Many families receiving Scottish Child Payment who qualify for the School Age Payment will receive the money automatically and do not need to submit an application.

The Scottish Government says the support forms part of a wider package of measures aimed at helping families during key stages of a child’s development.

Social Justice Secretary Shirley-Anne Somerville said:

“Starting school is a landmark moment in a child’s life, but sadly it can also put real financial pressure on families.

“That’s why we introduced the Best Start Grant School Age Payment, to help ensure that every child in Scotland can begin their school journey with what they need, regardless of their family’s circumstances.

“This support is a vital part of our wider commitment to eradicating child poverty, making sure help reaches families at key moments in a child’s life.”

Organisations working directly with families have welcomed the continued support and encouraged eligible households to check what help is available.

Sara Spencer, Cost of the School Day Project Manager, said:

“We know from our work with children and families that starting school adds real pressure to already stretched family finances.

“That’s why it’s really important that families apply for the financial support, like the School Age Payment, that they are entitled to.”

With applications now open, families are being encouraged to act early and ensure they do not miss out on support that could help make the transition into primary school a little easier.

For many households, the payment could provide welcome assistance at one of the most important milestones in a young child’s life.