What is considered low income in Wyoming? Knowing how these benchmarks work helps families access the right assistance programs, from affordable housing options to SNAP food benefits and Lifeline phone services.
Let’s dig in right now with our article!
1. What Is Considered Low Income in Wyoming?
The concept of “low income” in Wyoming is not simply defined by a fixed income level; it is determined based on criteria related to household income and the area of residence.
The federal and state governments use measures such as the Area Median Income (AMI) and the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) to classify households into different income groups, which then helps determine the level of assistance they are eligible for.
- Area Median Income (AMI): This is the median income of households within a specific area, calculated annually by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). AMI is used to set income thresholds for housing assistance programs, such as HOME and the Housing Trust Fund.
- Federal Poverty Level (FPL): This is the annual measure of poverty income set by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). FPL is used to determine eligibility for programs such as SNAP (Food Stamps), Medicaid, or Lifeline, etc.
In Wyoming, low-income households are generally defined as those with incomes below the AMI or FPL, depending on the specific assistance program.
Many people ask, “Is Wyoming a low-income state?“. Economically, Wyoming is not considered a low-income state. In fact, Wyoming often ranks high in terms of tax-friendliness, with no state income tax on individuals or businesses.
However, this does not mean that all residents of the state have high incomes. Many households in Wyoming still face high living costs, particularly in urban areas, where housing prices and the cost of living can exceed the means of low-income families.
2. Income Limits and Assistance Programs in Wyoming
Social welfare programs in the United States are closely interconnected.
What qualifies for low-income housing in Wyoming?
To be considered “low-income” in federal housing programs in Wyoming, HUD uses the Area Median Income (AMI) as the classification basis:
- Extremely Low Income: ≤ 30% of AMI
- Very Low Income: ≤ 50% of AMI
- Low Income: ≤ 80% of AMI
The AMI is calculated based on geographic area, so the maximum income to qualify may vary by location. Additionally, household size directly affects eligibility: the larger the household, the higher the maximum income allowed.
Some programs also consider assets or give priority to specific groups, such as seniors, people with disabilities, or single-parent households.
In Wyoming, agencies like the Wyoming Community Development Authority (WCDA) or local Public Housing Authorities use the HUD FY2025 income tables to determine eligibility and prioritize housing assistance.
What is the income limit for Food Stamps in Wyoming?
While housing programs determine income eligibility based on AMI, SNAP (Food Stamps) relies on the Federal Poverty Level (FPL). In Wyoming, to qualify for SNAP:
- Gross household income must be ≤ 130% of FPL
- Net income (after allowable deductions) must be ≤ 100% of FPL
It is important to note that SNAP not only provides food assistance; qualifying for SNAP also opens opportunities for other support programs, especially the Lifeline Program.
Lifeline Program in Wyoming
Lifeline is a federal program that helps low-income households reduce the cost of phone and internet services. The current maximum discount is $9.25 per month, and eligible households generally include those:
- With low income below the FPL threshold, or
- Participating in federal/state assistance programs such as SNAP, Medicaid, or SSI
Therefore, if you qualify for SNAP, you are very likely also eligible for Lifeline. This program helps reduce telecommunication expenses, facilitating access to employment, education, and other services that require phone or internet connectivity.
3. Best Free Government Phone Wyoming
If you are a resident of Wyoming and are looking for a free government phone in Wyoming, the Lifeline program can be an ideal solution to help you stay connected without worrying about costs.
One of the trusted providers in this program is AirTalk Wireless, which offers free phone services to low-income households.
AirTalk Wireless provides free phone services for eligible Wyoming residents participating in the Lifeline program. The service includes:
- Free smartphones: Eligible residents will receive a new or refurbished 4G/5G smartphone, depending on inventory availability.
- Free monthly plan: Includes services such as calling, texting, and free mobile data each month.
- Free shipping: Phones and SIM cards are shipped directly to your address at no cost.
- Dedicated customer support: Customer service is available to assist you throughout your usage of the service.
Below are some of the free phone models that AirTalk Wireless offers to Wyoming residents participating in the Lifeline program for your reference:
| Free Phone Models | Retail Price | AirTalk Wireless Price |
| AirVoice AS65U | Free | |
| Hotpepper Cascabel A88C | Free | |
| TCL GO FLIP 2 | Free | |
| Blu View 3 | Free |
*Prices shown above are based on current promotional offers and may vary depending on availability, location, and time of application.
To learn more details and check which models are available in your area, visit the AirTalk Wireless website and enter your ZIP code. Wyoming ZIP codes eligible for this service range from 82001 to 83414.
Final Words
Understanding what is considered low income in Wyoming gives you the foundation to access essential programs for housing, food, and phone assistance. By knowing where you stand and which benefits you qualify for, you can ease financial burdens and improve your quality of life. And don’t forget to explore more updated and useful information on AirTalk Wireless blog!