Even as DC’s economy grows, it is marked by stark racial inequalities in income, wealth, and poverty. Affording the basics, such as rent, food, and utilities is a daily challenge for many DC residents. This is disproportionately true for Black residents, one in five of whom live in poverty. Income support programs help people make ends meet and boost long-term education and health outcomes for children. By helping residents pay their bills, care for their children and possibly save for a rainy day, DC can help create more stability and a future of shared abundance.
Featured Publications & Resources
Report
DC’s Earned Income Tax Credit Supports Working Families Across the District
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • April 8, 2008 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / Taxes
Testimony
Testimony of Katie Kerstetter, Research Associate, DC Fiscal Policy Institute, for the Public Hearing on Fiscal Year 2007 and 2008 Spending and Performance by the Department of Human Services
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • February 20, 2008 • Income & Poverty
Testimony
Testimony of Ed Lazere, Executive Director, DC Fiscal Policy Institute at the Public Oversight Roundtable On Poverty Issues: Developing a Public/Private Strategy Aimed at Eliminating Poverty Among District Residents District of Columbia Committee on Housing and Urban Affairs
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • January 17, 2008 • Income & Poverty
Latest on this Issue
Blog
Inequality Remained Extreme in 2024 as DC Backslid on Poverty
By Connor Zielinski • September 15, 2025 • Income & Poverty
Testimony
TANF Benefits Are a Lifeline for DC Families, and Limits and Cuts Will Do Major Harm
By Tazra Mitchell • June 6, 2025 • TANF & Income Support
Blog
US House Details its Cruel Plan to Take Food and Health Care from the Poor to Give to the Rich
By Erica Williams • May 16, 2025 • Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget
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