What Is Considered Low Income in Arkansas for a Single Person?
Navigate the nuanced definitions of low income for a single person in Arkansas. Understand official guidelines and how income is assessed.
The term “low income” does not have a single, universal definition, but rather varies significantly depending on the specific federal or state program. These varying income thresholds are important because they determine eligibility for a range of support and resources designed to assist individuals and families.
Federal Poverty Guidelines
The Federal Poverty Guidelines (FPG) serve as a national benchmark for defining poverty and low income, influencing eligibility for many programs across the United States. These guidelines are issued annually by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). The FPG are updated each year to account for changes in the Consumer Price Index.
For 2025, the Federal Poverty Guideline for a single person in the 48 contiguous states and the District of Columbia is $15,650 annually. Many federal programs use them directly or as a multiple to determine who qualifies for support. States frequently use these figures as a reference point for their own program eligibility.
Arkansas Program Income Limits
Arkansas administers various programs that define “low income” based on specific thresholds, which may be tied to the Federal Poverty Guidelines or set independently. These limits can differ substantially depending on the type of assistance offered.
For example, Arkansas Medicaid for adults aged 19 to 64 typically uses an income limit of 138% of the Federal Poverty Level. Based on the 2025 FPG, a single person would need an annual income at or below approximately $21,597 to qualify for this coverage. This translates to about $1,799.75 per month.
The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) in Arkansas has a gross income limit of 130% of the federal poverty level for most households. For a single person, the monthly gross income limit for SNAP is $1,631. This equates to an annual income of $19,572. Households must also meet a net income limit, which is 100% of the FPL.
Housing assistance programs, often overseen by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), also have specific income limits that vary by geographic area within Arkansas. These limits are typically based on a percentage of the Area Median Income (AMI), rather than solely on the FPG. For instance, in the Little Rock-North Little Rock-Conway metropolitan area for fiscal year 2025, the “extremely low income” limit for a single person is $19,500. The “very low income” limit for a single person in the same area is $32,450, and the “low income” limit is $51,950.
Income Determination Factors
Agencies consider various components of an individual’s financial resources when assessing eligibility for low-income programs. Income typically includes earnings from wages, salaries, and self-employment, as well as certain benefits such as Social Security payments. However, some specific benefits, like SNAP benefits, are usually excluded from income calculations.
Programs commonly use gross income, which is the total income before taxes and other deductions. Some programs may allow for specific deductions, such as certain medical expenses or childcare costs, when calculating countable income. For health insurance eligibility, including Medicaid, Modified Adjusted Gross Income (MAGI) is often used, which is calculated from Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) with certain untaxed income added back.
The household size also plays a significant role in determining income limits for assistance programs. The income thresholds generally increase with each additional household member.
Finding Official Resources
Income thresholds and program eligibility criteria are subject to periodic updates and can change. For current and accurate information, consult official government sources directly.
The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) website provides the current Federal Poverty Guidelines. For specific program details within Arkansas, the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) website is an important resource. Additionally, the HUD User website offers detailed housing income limits for various areas. Individuals are encouraged to contact relevant state agencies or local community organizations for personalized guidance regarding specific programs and their eligibility requirements.