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
Testimony
Testimony of Lindsay Clark, Policy Analyst, DC Fiscal Policy Institute, For the Public Hearing on the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Support Act of 2008
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • April 25, 2008 • Inclusive Economy / Income & Poverty / Revenue & Budget / Taxes
Report
Hometown Prosperity: Increasing Opportunity for DC’s Low-Income Working Families
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • April 14, 2008 • Income & Poverty
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
Latest on this Issue
Testimony
Public Comments in Opposition to Proposed Federal “Public Charge” Rule
By DC Fiscal Policy Institute • January 15, 2026 • Income & Poverty
Blog
DC Tax Credits for Households with Low Incomes Will Reduce Child Poverty by One-Fifth
By Maria Manansala • December 18, 2025 • Income & Poverty / Taxes
Blog
Inequality Remained Extreme in 2024 as DC Backslid on Poverty
By Connor Zielinski • September 15, 2025 • Income & Poverty
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