Federal Poverty Level
An income measure published annually by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), used to determine eligibility for dozens of federal benefit programs.
The 2025 FPL for a family of one is approximately $15,650/year ($1,304/month). Programs use percentages of FPL for eligibility thresholds (e.g., Medicaid at 138% FPL, ACA subsidies at 100%-400% FPL, CHIP at 200%-300% FPL).
FPL levels vary slightly for Alaska and Hawaii.
→ BenefitKarma's Benefit Eligibility Screener uses FPL calculations to match you with programs.
Also known as
Related terms
- ACA (Affordable Care Act)
A federal law (signed 2010) that expanded access to health insurance by creating the Health Insurance Marketplace, establishing income-based subsidies, and requiring insurers to cover pre-existing conditions.
- SNAP
The nation's largest food assistance program (formerly known as Food Stamps) that provides monthly benefits via EBT card to help low-income individuals and families purchase groceries.
- SSI
A federal needs-based program administered by the SSA that provides monthly cash payments to adults and children with disabilities or blindness, and to adults 65+, who have limited income and resources.
- TANF
A federal block grant program that provides states with funding for cash assistance, childcare, job training, and other supports for low-income families with children.
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Frequently asked questions about Federal Poverty Level
What does Federal Poverty Level mean?+
The Federal Poverty Level, or FPL, is a number set each year by the U.S. government. It helps decide if people can get help from many government programs. This number changes based on how many people are in a family and where they live. It makes sure help goes to families who need it most.
How is Federal Poverty Level used?+
The Federal Poverty Level is used to see who qualifies for different kinds of help, like food assistance, healthcare, and housing programs. If your income is below a certain percentage of the FPL, you might be able to get benefits. It's a way to measure financial need across the country.
What is the Federal Poverty Level for my family?+
The Federal Poverty Level changes each year and depends on how many people are in your family. To find out the exact number for your family, you would look at the charts published by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Your state might also have slightly different levels for some programs.
Which benefits use the Federal Poverty Level?+
Many federal and state benefits use the Federal Poverty Level to decide who can get help. This includes programs for healthcare, food, child care, and housing. Being below a certain FPL percentage often means you are eligible for important support to help with daily living costs.