Low income

The low-income threshold represents the same standard of living for all households. Starting point is the income support benefit for singles in 1979, when purchasing power reached its highest level. For other types of households, the low-income threshold is found by applying a raising factor, based on the actual extra costs for households of different size and composition. After 1979, the low-income threshold has been adjusted for price increases, which facilitates comparison through time. The low-income limit for singles is 870 euro a month, for families with two children 1,640 euro a month.