Minimum Income Standards

The Minimum Income Standards project aims to define an “adequate” income. It is based on what members of the public think is enough money to live on, to maintain a socially acceptable quality of life.

In April 2013*:

• a single working-age adult needs a budget of £200 per week;
• a pensioner couple need £240;
• a couple with two children need £470; and
• a lone parent with one child needs £285

» Download this year’s research here.

*
These amounts are after income tax, and do not include housing or childcare costs.
Most people relying on basic out-of-work benefits do not reach this standard.

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