What is the federal poverty level?
The number behind Medicaid, the tax credit and silver-plan savings, with the table for your household size.
Last checked October 14, 2026 · Written by licensed advisors · Sources are numbered and listed under Notes and sources
The short answer
The federal poverty level is a yearly income amount the government sets for each household size. Health programs use it as a measuring stick. The Marketplace divides your household income by it, and the result decides whether you get Medicaid, a tax credit, extra savings on a silver plan, or no help at all.1
The 2026 table, used for 2027 coverage
Marketplace help for plans that start in 2027 uses the 2026 numbers. Find your household size and see where your yearly income falls. Figures are for the 48 contiguous states and DC; Alaska and Hawaii are higher.
Medicaid works differently: it uses the current year’s numbers, so the Medicaid column updates when the 2027 guidelines come out in January.2
| Household | Poverty level | Medicaid line (1.38×, 2026) | Silver savings end (2.5×) | Tax credit stops (4×) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $15,960 | $22,025 | $39,900 | $63,840 |
| 2 people | $21,640 | $29,863 | $54,100 | $86,560 |
| 3 people | $27,320 | $37,702 | $68,300 | $109,280 |
| 4 people | $33,000 | $45,540 | $82,500 | $132,000 |
| 5 people | $38,680 | $53,378 | $96,700 | $154,720 |
| 6 people | $44,360 | $61,217 | $110,900 | $177,440 |
Swipe sideways to see every column.
What the multiples mean
Under about 1.38×, many states, including Illinois, cover adults through Medicaid. Kids qualify at higher incomes through CHIP.
Between 1× and 2.5×, silver plans come with extra savings that cut the deductible and copays.
Up to 4×, a tax credit lowers your monthly premium. Above 4×, the credit stops completely, and you pay the full price.3
What to do: Divide your expected 2027 household income by the poverty level for your household size. That number is your multiple.
Related guides
Obamacare Hotline and/or Medicare Po Polsku are private companies not affiliated with any local, state, or federal government agency. This guide is general information, not tax or legal advice.