Legal Aid Income Limits Updated: 125% of Poverty Line Qualifies
Published Date: 1/26/2026
Rule
Summary
Starting January 26, 2026, the Legal Services Corporation updates the income limits for folks who can get free legal help. If your income is up to 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, you qualify, and there’s a handy chart showing 200% for special cases. This change keeps things fair and up-to-date with the latest poverty numbers, so more people know if they’re eligible for legal aid.
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 2 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Legal Aid Eligibility at 125% FPG
Starting January 26, 2026, you are eligible for Legal Services Corporation (LSC) funded free legal help if your income is at or below 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. For 2026, the 125% thresholds include $19,950 for a one-person household in the 48 contiguous States and DC, $24,938 for Alaska, and $22,950 for Hawaii.
200% FPG Reference Chart for Exceptions
LSC published a 200% of Federal Poverty Guidelines reference chart for 2026 to help recipients assess applicants whose income is greater than 125% but less than 200% of the Guidelines and who might be eligible under exceptions. Example 200% amounts include $31,920 for a one-person household in the 48 contiguous States and DC, $39,900 for Alaska, and $36,720 for Hawaii; the chart is for reference only and does not change the 125% ceiling.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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