Poverty at Issue
College of Human Environmental Science, Department of Consumer and Family Economics
University Outreach and Extension, University of Missouri—Columbia

Winter 2001-2002

2001 Official Poverty Thresholds

Official poverty thresholds are the basis for determining eligibility for means-tested programs. They have come under intense scrutiny in recent years because of their failure to take into account differing family circumstances, variations in living expenses in different geographic locations, unique family needs and taxes, among other factors. 

Official poverty thresholds are determined by pricing a market basket of food capable of sustaining a family in the short run and multiplying by three. Why? Because in the 1950s, a USDA study found that low-income families spent about a third of their income on food.

2001 HHS Poverty Guidelines 
Size of Family Unit  48 Contiguous States and D.C. 
1 $ 8,590
2 11,610
3 14,630
4 17,650
5 20,670
6  23,690
7 26,710
8 29,730
For each additional person, add  3,020
Source:  Federal Register, Vol. 66, No. 33, February 16, 2001, pp. 10695-10697. 

 

Back to Poverty at Issue-Winter 01-02 Table of Contents

These publications may become outdated at any time due to changes in programs and benefits. It is important to check with the appropriate agency for current eligibility requirements and benefit information.

For additional information contact:
Brenda Procter, 573-882-3820;
procterb@missouri.edu

Visit http://extension.missouri.edu/hes/search.htm to search this site.
 

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Human Environmental Sciences Extension
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last updated: 06/08/07