Federal Poverty Level
Calculator
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Instantly see what federal programs you may qualify for — SNAP, Medicaid, CHIP, school meals, and more — based on your household size and income.
2026
Current Guidelines
100% Federal Poverty Level for 3-person household · 48 States & DC
$27,320
per year
$2,277
per month
This is the baseline poverty threshold. Many federal programs use a percentage of this number to set income limits.
Your Income vs. Federal Poverty Level
Program Eligibility Thresholds
Enter your income above to check eligibility
Full FPL Reference — 48 States & DC, 3-person household
| Program / Level | Annual | Monthly | % FPL |
|---|
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Federal Poverty Level?+
The Federal Poverty Level (FPL) is an income measure published each year by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It's used to determine eligibility for dozens of federal programs including Medicaid, CHIP, SNAP (food stamps), and marketplace health insurance subsidies. The guidelines are updated annually to account for inflation.
Why do Alaska and Hawaii have different guidelines?+
Alaska and Hawaii have significantly higher costs of living than the continental United States. HHS has recognized this since the 1960s–70s by maintaining separate, higher poverty guidelines for these states. Alaska's guidelines are the highest, followed by Hawaii, then the 48 contiguous states and DC.
What income is counted toward the FPL?+
Each program defines income differently. Most count wages, salaries, self-employment income, Social Security benefits, unemployment compensation, and other regular income sources. Some programs exclude certain income types (like child support received, or certain disability payments) or allow deductions. Always confirm with the specific program office.
Who counts as part of my "household"?+
Household composition rules vary by program. Most programs include you, your spouse, and your dependent children. Some programs (like SNAP) use different "assistance unit" rules. For health insurance marketplace purposes, your household is generally your tax filing unit. When in doubt, check with the specific program.
Can I qualify for multiple programs at the same time?+
Yes — and many families do. For example, a family at 140% FPL might qualify for Medicaid (138% threshold in expansion states), SNAP (130% gross income limit), and free school meals (185% threshold — wait, no: they'd qualify since 140% is below 185%). Eligibility for one program does not affect eligibility for another.
How often are these guidelines updated?+
The poverty guidelines are updated annually in January or February. The 2026 guidelines reflect approximately a 2.63% increase from 2025, based on changes in the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U). This calculator uses the official 2026 HHS figures.
What if my household is larger than 8 people?+
This calculator supports households up to 20 people. For each person beyond the official 8-person table, HHS adds a fixed amount per additional person: $5,680/year for the 48 contiguous states and DC, $7,100 for Alaska, and $6,530 for Hawaii. This calculator applies those additions automatically.
Reference only. This calculator uses official 2026 HHS poverty guidelines for informational purposes. Actual program eligibility depends on additional factors beyond income, including assets, residency, immigration status, household definition, and program-specific rules. Contact the relevant program office or a benefits counselor for an official determination.
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