2025 Federal Poverty Level Calculator
Calculate income thresholds for federal program eligibility based on the latest HHS poverty guidelines effective January 2025
💰 Annual Income Threshold
$0
per year
📅 Monthly Equivalent
$0
per month
🎯 Common Program Eligibility Thresholds
- 100% FPL: Basic poverty threshold, used for many federal programs
- 130% FPL: SNAP (Food Stamps) gross income limit
- 133-138% FPL: Medicaid eligibility in expansion states
- 150% FPL: CHIP eligibility in some states
- 185% FPL: Free school meals, WIC eligibility
- 200% FPL: Reduced-price school meals
- 400% FPL: Maximum for ACA premium tax credits (before 2025 changes)
⚠️ Important: Each program has specific eligibility rules beyond income. This calculator provides general guidelines only. Contact program offices for official determinations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Federal Poverty Level (FPL)?
The Federal Poverty Level is a measure of income issued annually by the Department of Health and Human Services. It's used to determine eligibility for many federal assistance programs like Medicaid, CHIP, and premium tax credits for health insurance.
Why are Alaska and Hawaii different?
Alaska and Hawaii have higher poverty guidelines due to higher costs of living. This practice began in the 1960s-70s and recognizes the economic realities of these states. Alaska has the highest thresholds, followed by Hawaii, then the 48 contiguous states.
How often are the poverty guidelines updated?
The poverty guidelines are updated annually, typically in January or February. The 2025 guidelines reflect a 2.9% increase from the previous year based on inflation measured by the Consumer Price Index.
What's the difference between poverty guidelines and poverty thresholds?
Poverty guidelines (used by this calculator) are simplified versions used for administrative purposes to determine program eligibility. Poverty thresholds are more detailed figures used by the Census Bureau for statistical purposes to count how many people are in poverty.
Does 138% FPL apply to all states for Medicaid?
No, only states that expanded Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act use 138% FPL for adult eligibility. Non-expansion states have much lower income limits for parents and generally don't cover childless adults regardless of income.
What income counts toward the poverty level calculation?
Each program defines income differently. Generally, it includes wages, self-employment income, Social Security, unemployment benefits, and other regular income. Some programs exclude certain types of income or provide deductions. Check with specific programs for their income rules.
Who counts as part of my household?
Household composition rules vary by program. Generally, it includes people you live with and are financially responsible for, such as spouses and dependent children. Some programs use tax household rules, while others use different definitions.
Can I qualify for multiple programs at different FPL percentages?
Yes! Many families qualify for multiple programs. For example, a family at 150% FPL might qualify for Medicaid (138% threshold), SNAP (130% gross income), and reduced-price school meals (185% threshold), but not free school meals (185% threshold).
What if my household size is larger than 14 people?
For households larger than 14 people, add $4,540 for each additional person in the 48 contiguous states and DC, $5,680 in Alaska, and $5,220 in Hawaii. This calculator automatically handles these calculations.
Is this calculator official or just for reference?
This calculator is for reference only and uses official HHS data. For actual program applications, contact the specific program offices as they may have additional eligibility requirements, different income calculation methods, or asset limits.
Share this post:
Check Assistance Programs and Benefits for Seniors in Your State