A prepaid payment card for pregnant women and families with young children in Scotland to help buy healthy food, eggs, milk, fruit, and vegetables.
Families & Children
£21.60 every 4 weeks during pregnancy and ages 1–3 | £43.20 every 4 weeks for children under 1
Social Security Scotland
Tick off each condition below. You'll usually need to meet all of them to qualify.
Apply online at mygov.scot or phone Social Security Scotland on 0800 182 2222.
Submit a single combined application form for Best Start Foods and the Best Start Grant.
Approved applicants receive a Smartcard loaded automatically every 4 weeks to use at supermarkets and local food shops.
Best Start Foods works alongside local council early learning centers, community food larders, and free early education childcare places.
A series of 3 tax-free lump-sum payments paid to low-income families in Scotland at key developmental stages from pregnancy through to starting primary school.
View guide Families & ChildrenA unique Scottish benefit paid to low-income families for every eligible child under 16 to help with food, clothing, and day-to-day family expenses.
View guide Low Income & Working AgeThe main monthly payment for people of working age who are on a low income, out of work, or unable to work due to health conditions.
View guide