CACFP Regulations and Guidance
Identifying False Claims and Potential Fraud the CACFP
USDA released a memorandum providing guidance to help state agencies recognize warning signs of potential fraud and respond quickly when improper claiming practices are suspected. The guidance reinforces the importance of strong program oversight, accurate recordkeeping, and timely corrective action to protect CACFP funding and maintain public trust.
Read MoreNew Institutions’ Participation in the CACFP
USDA issued guidance encouraging State agencies to strengthen their review of organizations seeking to participate in the CACFP. The memorandum emphasizes thorough screening, documentation, and oversight during the application process to prevent fraud, waste, and program abuse while ensuring that only qualified organizations are approved to operate the Program.
Read MoreRecordkeeping Requirements in the CACFP
USDA released a memorandum emphasizing the critical role of recordkeeping in maintaining the integrity of the CACFP. The guidance reminds state agencies and CACFP operators that complete, accurate, and timely records are essential to support reimbursement claims, demonstrate viability, capability, and accountability (VCA), and protect program funds from misuse.
Read MoreFY27 Area Eligibility Map
USDA announced that the CACFP and SFSP Area Eligibility Mapper has been updated for fiscal year 2027. Area eligibility is used to determine the tier of family child care homes in the CACFP, as well as the eligibility of CACFP At-Risk Afterschool sites and SFSP summer site.
Read MoreSimplified Geographic Preference Procurement
For CACFP operators looking to purchase locally grown, raised, or caught foods, this guidance outlines the minor changes made by the final rule and provides an overview of geographic preference options.
Read MoreFinal Rule: Simplified Geographic Preference Procurement
USDA has released a final rule on Simplified Geographic Preference Procurement in Child Nutrition Programs. The rule does not create new requirements or change existing policy, Instead, the rule makes some terminology changes and provides clarification on existing requirements.
Read More2026-2027 CACFP Reimbursement Rates
USDA has released the Reimbursement Rates for 2026-2027. Rates are effective from July 1, 2026, through June 30, 2027.
Read More2026-2027 Cash In Lieu Value of Donated Foods
The USDA has released the cash-in-lieu value of USDA foods for 2026-2027. The value has increased by one and a half cents.
Read MoreEnsuring Integrity in Non-Congregate Meal Service in the SFSP
USDA released guidance with recommendations for State agencies to ensure program integrity for non-congregate meals in the SFSP.
Read MoreExpanding Fluid Milk Options in CNPs
USDA released guidance on the implementation of the Expanding Fluid Milk Options in Child Nutrition Programs Final Rule. As of June 8, 2026, all CACFP operators have the flexibility to serve whole, reduced-fat, low-fat, and fat-free milk to all participants ages two and up in their programs.
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