Census money income is defined as income received on a regular basis before payments for taxes, social security, etc. and does not reflect noncash benefits.

Income inequality is the extent to which income is distributed unevenly among a population.

If a family's total income is less than the official poverty threshold for a family of that size and composition, then they are considered to be in poverty.

Public assistance refers to assistance programs that provide either cash or in-kind benefits to individuals and families from any governmental entity.

The Small Area Income and Poverty Estimates (SAIPE) program provides more current estimates for the administration and allocation of federal programs and funds.

In 2009, the Census Bureau and Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) created a Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM) to replace previous experimental poverty measures.

Household net worth or wealth is an important defining factor of economic well-being - it can become an additional source of income in hard times or retirement.

Factors that contribute to well-being include income, possession of consumer durables, housing and neighborhood conditions, and the meeting of basic needs.