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DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES ISSUES 
On March 18, 1999 the Department of Health and Human Services issued its updated poverty guidelines in light of the last year's increase in prices as measured by the Consumer Price Index. The new guidelines go into effect on the day they are published.
These figures play an important role in the immigration process because they are used to help determine if an immigrant will become a public charge. So, for example, if one is immigrating through a family petition, they need to show they will have at least 125% of the poverty limit for a household of their size. The HHS figures are used to set the mark for the poverty determination. 
1999 Poverty Guidelines for the 48 Contiguous States and the District of Columbia 
Size of family Poverty level
1....................................................... $ 8,240 
2....................................................... 11,060 
3....................................................... 13,880 
4....................................................... 16,700 
5....................................................... 19,520 
6....................................................... 22,340 
7....................................................... 25,160 
8....................................................... 27,980 
For family units with more than 8 members, add $ 2,820 for each additional member. 
 
1999 Poverty Guidelines for Alaska 
Size of family Poverty level
1....................................................... $ 10,320 
2....................................................... 13,840 
3....................................................... 17,360 
4....................................................... 20,880 
5....................................................... 24,400 
6....................................................... 27,920 
7....................................................... 31,440 
8....................................................... 34,960 
 
For family units with more than 8 members, add $ 3,520 for each additional member. 
 
1999 Poverty Guidelines for Hawaii 
Size of family Poverty level
1....................................................... $ 9,490 
2....................................................... 12,730 
3....................................................... 15,970 
4....................................................... 19,210 
5....................................................... 22,450 
6....................................................... 25,690 
7....................................................... 28,930 
8....................................................... 32,170 
For family units with more than 8 members, add $ 3,240 for each additional member.