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State Percent of Poverty Guidelines for LIHEAP Components

Note: The LIHEAP statute (Section 2605(b)(2)(b) of Public Law 97-35) established 150 percent of the poverty guidelines as a maximum income level allowed in determining LIHEAP eligibility, except where 60 percent of a state's median income is higher. Effective in FY 1995, income eligibility criteria for LIHEAP may not be set lower than 110 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines, but priority may be given to households with the highest energy costs or needs in relation to income. The federal government sets the poverty guidelines in March of every year and publishes them in the Federal Register. States may adopt the year's new guidelines at any time between the date of publication in the Federal Register and the first day of the next fiscal year or by the beginning of the grantee's fiscal year, whichever is later.

The Percent of Poverty Table compiled by the LIHEAP Clearinghouse shows the percent of federal poverty guidelines (FPG) or state's median income (SMI) to be used by states in determining eligibility for LIHEAP components in FY 2006. Although states can have a different poverty level for each component (crisis, cooling and weatherization) the majority use the same poverty level for all components.

Source: FY 2006 State LIHEAP Plans and interviews with state directors in late 2005

2005 Federal Poverty Guidelines for a Family Size of Four

Page Last Updated: January 27, 2010