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Child Nutrition Information and Payment System - CalEdFacts

This content is part of California Department of Education's information and media guide about education in the State of California. For similar information on other topics, visit the full CalEdFacts.

The Child Nutrition Information and Payment System (CNIPS) is the largest web-based application and reimbursement system ever implemented by the California Department of Education (CDE). The CNIPS helps local program sponsors administer state and federal nutrition programs such as the School Nutrition Programs (SNP), Food Distribution Program (FDP), and the Summer Food Service Program (SFSP). The CNIPS enables sponsors to easily submit online reimbursement, view the status of applications and meal reimbursement claims, and access site and sponsor information across programs. The CNIPS also increases timeliness and accuracy of claims submission, processing, and payments, while reducing the administrative burden on local agencies.

For more information regarding nutrition services, contact the Nutrition Services Division at 916-445-0850 or 800-952-5609. Additional information is available on the CDE Nutrition web page.

Questions:   Nutrition Services Division | 800-952-5609
Last Reviewed: Tuesday, August 05, 2025
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