What is the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)?

The Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is an income threshold set annually by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), based on household size. It serves as the primary benchmark used to determine eligibility for dozens of federal and state assistance programs, including healthcare, food, housing, and energy support.

The FPL is adjusted each year to account for inflation and cost-of-living changes, ensuring that eligibility criteria reflect current economic realities. For 2026, the base FPL for a single person in the contiguous U.S. is $15,960/year ($1,330/month), increasing by $5,680 for each additional household member. This represents a 2.63% increase over the 2025 FPL of $15,650.

Note that two different FPL years are relevant in 2026: the 2026 FPL is used for Medicaid and CHIP eligibility determinations (states typically begin using it by March–April 2026), while the 2025 FPL is used for ACA Marketplace subsidy eligibility for plans effective throughout 2026.

2026 Federal Poverty Level Table — 48 States & D.C. (Annual & Monthly)

The following table shows the official 2026 FPL guidelines for the 48 contiguous states and Washington, D.C., published by HHS in January 2026 and effective January 13, 2026. These figures are used for Medicaid and CHIP eligibility. For ACA Marketplace subsidy eligibility in 2026, use the 2025 column in the calculator above.

Source: U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, effective January 13, 2026. 138% and 400% columns are calculated from the official 100% baseline. Actual program thresholds may vary slightly due to individual program rounding rules. See Medicaid income limits by state for program-specific figures.

2026 Federal Poverty Level — Alaska & Hawaii

Alaska and Hawaii have higher FPL thresholds due to their significantly elevated costs of living. The 2026 figures are:

For state-specific Medicaid eligibility information, see Alaska Medicaid income limits and Hawaii Medicaid income limits.

2025 vs. 2026 Federal Poverty Level Comparison

The 2026 FPL reflects a 2.63% increase over 2025, calculated using 11 months of 2025 CPI-U data (October 2025 was excluded due to the federal government shutdown). This means more people may qualify for income-based programs in 2026 compared to prior years.

Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) — 2026

The Federal Benefit Rate (FBR) is the maximum monthly SSI payment for aged, blind, and disabled individuals. Many state Medicaid programs — particularly Nursing Home Medicaid and HCBS Waivers — use 300% of the FBR as the monthly income limit rather than the FPL.

Note: The 2026 FBR increased from $943 (2025) to $994/month for a single individual, and from $1,415 to $1,491/month for a couple — a 5.4% increase following the Social Security COLA adjustment. The 300% FBR monthly income limit for Nursing Home Medicaid increased from $2,829 (2025) to $2,982 (2026). See Medicaid income limits by state for how each state applies these figures.

Which Programs Use the FPL?

The FPL is used to determine eligibility for a wide range of programs. Here are the most common, along with the FPL thresholds and the relevant FPL year for 2026:

• Medicaid: Up to 138% of the 2026 FPL in expansion states ($22,025/year for one person). States typically switch to using the 2026 figures by March–April 2026. See Medicaid income limits by state. Wondering whether Medicaid is free? The answer depends on your income level.
• CHIP: Covers children in households up to 200–350% FPL depending on the state, using the 2026 FPL.
• SNAP (Food Stamps): Gross income must be at or below 130% FPL ($20,748/year for one person using the 2026 FPL). Review the SNAP income limits by state.
• WIC: Nutrition assistance for pregnant women, infants, and children up to 185% FPL ($29,526/year for one person). Check the WIC income guidelines by state.
• ACA Marketplace Subsidies: Premium tax credits for plans effective in 2026 use the 2025 FPL numbers and are available for households earning between 100%–400% FPL. The enhanced subsidies (which removed the 400% cap) expired December 31, 2025 — the subsidy cliff has returned in 2026. Learn about Special Enrollment Periods for ACA coverage.
• LIHEAP (Energy Assistance): Helps low-income households cover heating and cooling costs, typically up to 150% FPL ($23,940/year for one person using 2026 FPL).
• Section 8 Housing Vouchers: Based on Area Median Income (AMI), calculated separately by HUD — related to but distinct from FPL thresholds.
• Medicare Savings Programs: Help cover Medicare costs for low-income seniors, with thresholds set at various FPL percentages using the current year’s FPL.

Eligibility thresholds vary by state and program. Always verify with your state’s agency or use the program-specific calculators linked above.

What is the FPL Calculator?

The FPL Calculator above is a free, easy-to-use tool that instantly calculates your household’s FPL percentage based on your income and family size. It now includes the 2026 FPL data as the default year. Enter your income in any format — annual, monthly, biweekly, or weekly — and the calculator converts it automatically. You can also enter an FPL percentage to find the corresponding income amount.

Once you know your FPL percentage, use our program-specific tools to check your eligibility in detail: the SNAP eligibility checker, Medicaid eligibility calculator, and WIC eligibility calculator.

Why Does Your FPL Percentage Matter?

Your FPL percentage is the single most important number for accessing government assistance. Here’s why it matters across different programs in 2026:

• Health coverage: At 138% of the 2026 FPL or below ($22,025/year for one person), you likely qualify for Medicaid in expansion states. Find out whether Medicaid covers dental and whether Medicaid covers prescriptions in your state.
• Food assistance: At or below 130% of the 2026 FPL ($20,748/year for one person), you may qualify for SNAP food stamps. Learn how to apply for SNAP and review SNAP benefits by state.
• Children’s nutrition: At 185% of the 2026 FPL or below ($29,526/year for one person), your family may qualify for WIC and the Free and Reduced School Lunch Program.
• Insurance subsidies: Between 100%–400% of the 2025 FPL (used for 2026 Marketplace plans), you may qualify for ACA premium tax credits. Note: The 400% subsidy cliff returned in 2026 — households above 400% FPL ($62,600 for one person using 2025 FPL) no longer receive subsidies.
• Prescription assistance: Programs like those on NeedyMeds.org offer affordable medications to households below certain FPL thresholds.

Use the SNAP eligibility tool or Medicaid calculator for a more detailed eligibility assessment.

How is the FPL Updated?

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) publishes updated FPL guidelines each January, with the new figures taking effect for Medicaid and CHIP within 60–90 days of publication. The 2026 guidelines became effective January 13, 2026.

Updates reflect changes in the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U). For 2026, the calculation was unusual: because of the federal government shutdown in October 2025, the Bureau of Labor Statistics did not publish the CPI-U for that month. As a result, the 2026 FPL was calculated using 11 months of 2025 CPI-U data (excluding October) compared to all 12 months of 2024 — resulting in a 2.63% increase. You can also review Medicaid income limits by state for the latest figures.

Why Do Alaska and Hawaii Have Different FPL Guidelines?

Alaska and Hawaii have distinct, higher FPL guidelines due to their significantly elevated cost of living. In 2026, the base FPL for a single person is $19,950 in Alaska and $18,360 in Hawaii, compared to $15,960 for the contiguous U.S. Additional increments per household member are also higher: approximately $7,100 in Alaska and $6,530 in Hawaii, versus $5,680 in the contiguous U.S.

For state-specific Medicaid eligibility information, see the Alaska Medicaid income limits and Hawaii Medicaid income limits. For SNAP, check Alaska SNAP benefits and Hawaii SNAP benefits.

FPL vs. AMI: What’s the Difference?

While the FPL is used for programs like Medicaid, SNAP, and WIC, some programs — particularly housing assistance like Section 8 vouchers — use the Area Median Income (AMI) instead. AMI varies by geographic area and is calculated separately by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). If you’re applying for housing assistance, check with your local housing authority for AMI-based thresholds in your area.

Related Eligibility Tools & Guides

Now that you know your FPL percentage, use these tools to check your eligibility for specific programs:

• SNAP Eligibility Checker — See if your household qualifies for food stamps
• SNAP Income Limits by State — 2026 gross and net income limits for all states
• SNAP Benefits by State — How much could your household receive?
• Medicaid Eligibility Calculator — Check health coverage eligibility
• Medicaid Income Limits by State — State-by-state Medicaid income thresholds
• How to Apply for Medicaid — Step-by-step guide for all 50 states
• WIC Eligibility Calculator — Nutrition assistance for pregnant women and children
• WIC Income Guidelines by State — 185% FPL thresholds by state and household size
• Medicare Eligibility — Coverage options for seniors and the disabled
• Medicare vs. Medicaid: What’s the Difference? — Understand which program applies to you
• Special Enrollment Periods — When you can sign up for ACA Marketplace coverage
• How to Apply for SNAP Benefits — State-by-state application guide

What is 400% of the Federal Poverty Level in 2026?

In 2026, 400% of the FPL is approximately $63,840 for a single person and $132,000 for a family of four in the contiguous U.S., using the official 2026 HHS figures. This is significant because the ACA Marketplace subsidy cliff returned in 2026 — enhanced subsidies that removed the 400% cap expired on December 31, 2025. Households above 400% FPL now pay the full unsubsidized premium. Use our FPL Calculator (set to 2026) to find the exact 400% threshold for your household size. Always check Special Enrollment Periods when your coverage situation changes.

Note: For 2026 ACA Marketplace subsidy eligibility, the 2025 FPL is used — making 400% FPL approximately $62,600 for a single person under that calculation.

What is 250% of the Poverty Level in 2026?

In 2026, 250% of the FPL equals approximately $39,900 per year for a single person and $54,100 for a family of two in the contiguous U.S. At 250% FPL, households typically qualify for ACA cost-sharing reductions and premium tax credits on the Marketplace (using 2025 FPL for 2026 plans), though they generally no longer qualify for Medicaid (which caps at 138% FPL in expansion states) or SNAP (which caps at 130% FPL gross income in most states). Use our FPL Calculator to see the 250% threshold for your specific household size.

What is the 150% Poverty Level in 2026?

In 2026, 150% of the FPL is approximately $23,940 per year ($1,995/month) for a single person and $32,460 per year ($2,705/month) for a family of two in the contiguous U.S. At 150% FPL, households may qualify for LIHEAP energy assistance, certain ACA subsidies with significant cost-sharing reductions, and CHIP in some states. Many households at this level also qualify for SNAP food stamps — check the SNAP income limits for your state. Enter your income into our FPL Calculator for an instant result.

Is $30,000 a Year Considered Poverty Level?

It depends on your household size. In 2026, the 100% FPL for a single person is $15,960 — so a $30,000 annual income places a single person at approximately 188% of the FPL, which is above the poverty line. However, for a family of three, the 100% FPL is $27,320, meaning $30,000 is only about 110% FPL — near the poverty threshold. For a family of four ($33,000 FPL), $30,000 is below the poverty line.

At $30,000/year, you may qualify for:

• SNAP food stamps (depending on household size and state)
• Medicaid if you have dependents or live in an expansion state
• WIC if you are pregnant or have young children
• ACA Marketplace subsidies to reduce health insurance premiums

Use our FPL Calculator to find your exact FPL percentage based on your household size and the correct year.

Is a $40,000 Salary Considered Poverty?

For a single person in 2026, $40,000 per year is approximately 251% of the FPL — well above the official poverty line. However, for a family of five, the 100% FPL is $38,680, which means $40,000 is only about 103% FPL — barely above poverty for that household size.

At $40,000 per year, most single adults would not qualify for Medicaid or SNAP, but may qualify for ACA premium tax credits (between 100%–400% FPL using 2025 FPL for 2026 plans). Families with children may qualify for WIC and the Free and Reduced School Lunch Program. Use our FPL Calculator to check your household’s specific FPL percentage.

What Are the 4 Types of Poverty?

Poverty is generally categorized into four types, each describing a different dimension of economic hardship:

1. Absolute Poverty: A condition in which a person lacks the basic necessities for survival — food, clean water, shelter, and clothing. It is measured against a fixed income threshold (such as the FPL or the World Bank’s $2.15/day international poverty line).
2. Relative Poverty: Defined in relation to the average standard of living in a society. A household is considered relatively poor if its income is significantly below the median income of its country, even if basic needs are technically met.
3. Situational Poverty: Temporary poverty caused by a specific crisis or life event — such as job loss, illness, divorce, or a natural disaster. Assistance programs like SNAP and Medicaid are specifically designed to help households through situational poverty.
4. Generational (Cyclical) Poverty: Poverty passed from one generation to the next within a family or community, often linked to systemic barriers in education, healthcare access, and employment opportunities.

Federal assistance programs in the U.S. — including SNAP, Medicaid, and WIC — primarily address absolute and situational poverty using the Federal Poverty Level as the income benchmark.

What is the New Poverty Line in 2026?

The 2026 Federal Poverty Level guidelines were published by HHS on January 13, 2026. The 2026 poverty line for the contiguous U.S. is:

• 1 person: $15,960/year ($1,330/month)
• 2 people: $21,640/year ($1,803/month)
• 3 people: $27,320/year ($2,277/month)
• 4 people: $33,000/year ($2,750/month)
• 5 people: $38,680/year ($3,223/month)
• Each additional person adds $5,680/year

Alaska’s 2026 FPL for one person is $19,950. Hawaii’s is $18,360. These represent a 2.63% increase over the 2025 FPL. Use our FPL Calculator to see the full table and check the SNAP income limits or Medicaid income limits by state for program-specific thresholds.

How Much is 125% of the Federal Poverty Level in 2026?

In 2026, 125% of the FPL equals approximately $19,950/year ($1,663/month) for a single person and $27,050/year ($2,254/month) for a family of two in the contiguous U.S. The 125% FPL threshold is used by certain legal aid services, some state-specific health programs, and as a reference point for Medicare Savings Programs that help low-income seniors cover Medicare premiums. Learn more about Medicare eligibility and how it differs from Medicaid. Use the FPL Calculator to find the 125% threshold for your exact household size.

What is the Income Limit for LIS (Low Income Subsidy / Extra Help) in 2026?

The Low Income Subsidy (LIS) — also called “Extra Help” — is a Medicare program that assists beneficiaries with Part D prescription drug costs. In 2026, the FBR increased to $994/month for a single individual. The income limits for LIS are updated by the Social Security Administration (SSA) each year. Generally, the income limit for full LIS is approximately 135% FPL and for partial LIS approximately 150% FPL — using the current year’s FPL figures. Asset limits also apply. For the most current 2026 LIS income limits, visit Medicare.gov or contact the SSA. Also review our Medicare eligibility guide and the Medicare vs. Medicaid comparison.

Is a $50,000 Salary Considered Poverty?

For most single adults in 2026, $50,000 per year is approximately 313% of the FPL — significantly above the poverty line. For a family of six, however, the 100% FPL is $44,360, which means $50,000 is only about 113% FPL and close to the poverty threshold for that household size.

At $50,000/year, most single adults and couples will not qualify for SNAP or Medicaid, but larger families may still qualify for some programs. ACA Marketplace subsidies are available for households between 100%–400% FPL (using 2025 FPL for 2026 plans). Use the FPL Calculator to see your exact FPL percentage based on your actual household size.

What is 200% FPL in 2026?

In 2026, 200% of the FPL equals approximately $31,920/year ($2,660/month) for a single person and $43,280/year ($3,607/month) for a family of two in the contiguous U.S.

200% FPL is a critical threshold for several programs:

• CHIP: Many states cover children up to 200% FPL through the Children’s Health Insurance Program.
• WIC: Households at or below 185% FPL qualify; 200% FPL is just above the WIC cutoff in most states. Check WIC income guidelines by state.
• ACA Subsidies: Between 100%–200% FPL (using 2025 FPL for 2026 plans), households qualify for the most generous cost-sharing reductions on silver-tier Marketplace plans.
• SNAP (BBCE States): 39 states use Broad-Based Categorical Eligibility to raise the SNAP gross income limit to 200% FPL. See SNAP income limits by state.

Use the FPL Calculator to see the 200% threshold for your household size.

What is the $1.90 (Now $2.15) Poverty Line?

The $1.90/day poverty line — now updated to $2.15/day — is the World Bank’s international poverty line, used to measure extreme global poverty. It is expressed in 2017 purchasing power parity (PPP) dollars and is entirely separate from the U.S. Federal Poverty Level. This international measure is used to track poverty in low- and middle-income countries and is not used to determine eligibility for U.S. federal assistance programs like SNAP, Medicaid, or WIC. For U.S. program eligibility, the Federal Poverty Level set by HHS is the relevant benchmark.

What is the ACA Affordability Percentage for 2026?

The ACA affordability percentage determines whether an employer’s health plan is considered “affordable.” For 2026, the IRS set the affordability threshold at 9.02% of household income for employee-only coverage. If your employer’s plan costs more than this percentage of your income, you may be eligible for ACA Marketplace premium tax credits instead. Note that ACA subsidies for 2026 plans revert to the 100%–400% FPL window — the no-cap enhanced subsidies expired December 31, 2025. Use our FPL Calculator to find your FPL percentage, and check Special Enrollment Periods if your employment or coverage situation changes.

How is the Poverty Line Calculated?

The U.S. Federal Poverty Level was originally developed in the 1960s by economist Mollie Orshansky, based on the cost of a minimum food diet multiplied by three. Today, the FPL is updated each year by HHS using the Consumer Price Index for All Urban Consumers (CPI-U). The 2026 FPL reflects a 2.63% increase, calculated using 11 months of 2025 CPI-U data (October was excluded due to the government shutdown).

The calculation formula is simple:

• Base amount for a 1-person household (e.g., $15,960 in 2026 for the contiguous U.S.)
• Plus a fixed increment per additional household member (e.g., $5,680 in 2026)
• Alaska and Hawaii use higher base amounts and increments due to elevated costs of living

Critics note that the FPL methodology is outdated and doesn’t account for modern costs like childcare, housing, or geographic variation. The Census Bureau also publishes a Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) that accounts for these factors, though it is used for research rather than program eligibility. For program eligibility, the HHS FPL is the official standard — check SNAP income limits and Medicaid income limits for how these thresholds apply in practice.

What Class is My Household Income?

Income class is typically defined relative to the U.S. median household income (approximately $78,000–$80,000 in recent years). A common framework used by institutions like the Pew Research Center is:

• Poor / Low Income: Less than 67% of the median household income (roughly below ~$52,000–$54,000 for a family of four, adjusted for size)
• Lower-Middle Class: 67%–100% of median income
• Middle Class: 100%–200% of median income (roughly $78,000–$156,000 for a typical household)
• Upper-Middle Class: 200%–300% of median income
• Upper Class / Wealthy: Above 300% of median income (~$234,000+)

Income class is different from the FPL. The FPL determines eligibility for specific assistance programs, not social class. You can be above the FPL and still be considered low-income by broader economic measures. If your household falls in the lower-income ranges, use our tools to check: SNAP eligibility, Medicaid eligibility, WIC eligibility, and your FPL percentage.