What Is Considered Low Income for Seniors in Connecticut?

In Connecticut, seniors receiving less than 80% the median annual income for the state are considered low income. According to the 2021 U.S. Census, median annual income per capita in Connecticut is $47,869, compared to the national per capita median annual income of $37,638 per year, and 80% of Connecticut’s median annual income is $38,295.20 per year, or $3,191.27 monthly.

However, many low-income programs use a much lower number to determine eligibility for participation, using the Federal Poverty Level as a threshold for qualification. Connecticut’s Medicaid program, for example, serves seniors 65 or older, or disabled adults of any age earning less than $18,075 gross income per year, or just $1,506.25 per month.

The difference between low income and poverty level is that low income is defined as any income up to 200% of the poverty level, whereas anything below the poverty level is considered in poverty. The federal poverty level in 2022 is considered any income under $13,590 for a one-person household. That number increases by $4,720 per year per member of the household. For example, a household of two would be considered in poverty if the total household income were less than $18,310. In Connecticut, 10.1% of people live in poverty, according to the 2021 U.S. Census.

There are several programs offered in Connecticut to assist low-income seniors with needs ranging from housing, energy and food to providing home health care and assistance with long-term care. Low-income seniors in Connecticut needing long-term in-home care may qualify for personal services, nursing care and homemaker services as needed with a Medicaid waiver.

The Connecticut Home Care Program for Elders (CHCPE) also assists low-income Connecticut seniors who are at risk of being placed in a nursing home to keep them living at home. This program has no income limits for participation but may require seniors who do not qualify for Medicaid to pay for a portion of their care.