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
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-04666 — Notice of Funding Availability and Request for Proposals for Calendar Year 2027 Basic Field Grant Awards
The Legal Services Corporation is getting ready to offer grants in 2027 to help groups provide free legal help to low-income people across the U.S. and territories. If you want to apply, you’ll need to submit a pre-application starting around April 13, 2026, and then a full proposal once approved. The exact funding amount isn’t set yet, but this is your chance to get support for important legal aid work starting January 2027.
2025-01789 — Income Level for Individuals Eligible for Assistance
If you need legal help, this update changes the income limits to match the latest poverty guidelines. It means more people might qualify for free legal aid starting now. The new rules keep things fair and up-to-date with the cost of living.
2026-05025 — Sunshine Act Meetings
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