Federal Poverty Level Calculator
Your Federal Poverty Level Analysis
What Is the Federal Poverty Level?
The Federal Poverty Level is an income threshold set each year by the U.S. government. It is based on:
- Household size
- Geographic adjustment (Alaska and Hawaii cost more)
- Annual income
The FPL is not a measure of comfort or quality of life. It is a baseline used to decide eligibility for public assistance programs.
Example:
If the FPL for a family of four is $30,000 and your income is $45,000, your household is at 150% of the Federal Poverty Level.
Why the Federal Poverty Level Matters
Your FPL percentage is more important than the raw dollar amount. Many programs use percentages of FPL to decide eligibility.
Common thresholds include:
- 100% FPL: Official poverty line
- 130% FPL: Food assistance programs
- 138% FPL: Medicaid expansion coverage
- 150%–185% FPL: Energy assistance, WIC, school meals
- 200% FPL: Children’s health programs
Knowing your percentage gives you clarity. Guessing does not.
What This Federal Poverty Level Calculator Does
This calculator takes your details and turns them into clear answers. It shows:
- Your household’s poverty guideline
- Your annual income
- Your percentage of the Federal Poverty Level
- Whether you are above or below the poverty line
- Estimated eligibility for key assistance programs
It is designed for everyday use. You do not need tax forms or spreadsheets.
Information You Enter
The calculator is broken into two main sections.
1. Household Information
You provide:
- Year
Selects the correct poverty guideline table. - State
Uses federal standards or higher limits for Alaska and Hawaii. - Household Size
Includes adults and dependents living together.
Each additional household member increases the poverty threshold.
2. Income Information
You can enter income in the way that fits your situation:
- Annual
- Monthly
- Weekly
- Hourly
If you choose hourly pay, the calculator asks for hours worked per week. It also lets you add additional annual income, such as side jobs or other support.
All income is converted into a single annual figure so comparisons stay accurate.
How the Calculator Works Behind the Scenes
The logic is simple and transparent.
- Your income is converted to an annual amount
- The correct poverty guideline is selected by year and household size
- State multipliers adjust the number if needed
- Your income is compared to the guideline
- A percentage of FPL is calculated
Formula used:
(Annual Income ÷ Poverty Guideline) × 100 = FPL Percentage
This same method is used by agencies and benefit programs.
Understanding Your Results
Once you click Calculate, the results section appears.
Federal Poverty Level Amount
This is the official income limit for your household based on your inputs.
Your Annual Income
This is your total income after all conversions and additions.
Percentage of FPL
This number matters most. A progress bar helps you see where you land visually.
- Below 100%: Below the poverty line
- Above 100%: Above the poverty line
Poverty Status
The calculator clearly states:
- “In Poverty”
- or “Not in Poverty”
It also shows how far above or below the line your income falls.
Program Eligibility Estimates
Based on your FPL percentage, the calculator checks common thresholds for:
- Medicaid (138% FPL)
- CHIP (200% FPL)
- SNAP (130% FPL)
- School meal assistance
- WIC
- Energy assistance (LIHEAP)
- Lifeline phone and internet support
- Housing Choice Voucher estimates
Each program is marked Eligible or Not Eligible based on income alone.
This is an estimate, not a guarantee.
Important Limitations to Know
This calculator is accurate, but it is not a final decision tool.
Keep in mind:
- States may use different rules
- Some programs count or exclude certain income types
- Assets, immigration status, and family makeup can matter
- Program offices make the final call
Always confirm with the program administrator before applying.
Who Should Use This Calculator?
This tool is useful if you are:
- Planning to apply for benefits
- Comparing job offers or hours
- Estimating eligibility before paperwork
- Helping a family member understand options
- Writing or reviewing financial plans
It is also helpful for caseworkers, students, and advocates who need quick estimates.