Defining Poverty
Major sources of poverty data are available from the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and from the U.S. Census Bureau. However, the DHHS and Census measurements and definitions are not identical. Make sure your terms and sources are clearly defined.
From DHHS:
DHHS Poverty Guidelines (with links to other useful data)
History of Poverty Measurement at DHHS
DHHS FAQ page on Poverty Guidelines
DHHS 2015 Poverty Guidelines
From the U.S. Census:
How the Census Bureau Measures Poverty
Poverty Data
Poverty Thresholds since 1959
How the Census Measures Poverty
Comparing American Community Survey (ACS) Data
Sources of U.S. Poverty Data
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Statistical InsightAccess to statistical information produced by U.S. federal and state agencies, major international intergovernmental organizations, professional and trade organizations,
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Statistical Abstract of the United StatesSummarizes U.S. social, political and economic data in convenient tables from a wide variety of Federal and State agencies as well as private organizations.
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U.S. Census Bureau: PovertyPoverty data from several major household surveys and programs.
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National Poverty CenterUniversity of Michigan nonpartisan research center.
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Historical Statistics of the U.S.26 tables under Work and Welfare > Economic Inequality and Poverty.
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National Center for Children in PovertyPublic policy center dedicated to promoting the economic security, health, and well-being of America’s low-income families and children.
Government Reports on Poverty
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Emergency and Transitional Shelter Population 20102010 Census Special Report
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Emergency and Transitional Shelter Population 20002000 Census Special Report
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Profile of the Working PoorBureau of Labor Statistics Annual Report
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U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO): PovertyReports created by an independent, nonpartisan agency that works for Congress.
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Congressional Research Service (CRS) Reports via ProQuest CongressionalCRS, a division of the Library of Congress, produces analytical, non-partisan reports on topics of interest to members of Congress. 1916-current
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Poverty Rates for Selected Detailed Race and Hispanic Groups by State and Place: 2007–2011American Community Survey Briefs. Feb. 2013
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Poverty: 2000 to 2012American Community Survey Briefs. Sept. 2013
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Poverty: 2012 and 2013American Community Survey Briefs 2014
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The Growth and Spread of Concentrated Poverty, 2000 to 2008-2012Brookings Institution Research Brief - July 31, 2014