The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released an update of the HHS poverty guidelines to account for last year’s increase in prices as measured by the Consumer Price Index. The guidelines are important in immigration applications because applicants’ sponsors must show they make 125% of the applicable poverty guideline.

2004 Poverty Guidelines for the 48 Contiguous States and the District of Columbia:

 

Size of family unit	Poverty guideline
1	$9,310
2	$12,490
3	$15,670
4	$18,850
5	$22,030
6	$25,210
7	$28,390
8	$31,570

Family units with more than eight members should add $3,180 for each additional member.

2004 Poverty Guidelines for Alaska

 

Size of family unit	Poverty guideline
1	$11,630
2	$15,610
3	$19,590
4	$23,570
5	$27,550
6	$31,530
7	$35,510
8	$39,490

Family units with more than eight members should add $3,980 for each additional member.

2004 Poverty Guidelines for Hawaii

 

Size of family unit	Poverty guideline
1	$10,700
2	$14,360
3	$18,020
4	$21,680
5	$25,340
6	$29,000
7	$32,660
8	$36,320

Family units with more than eight members should add $3,660 for each additional member.