Percent of Americans in Poverty Highest in 15 Years
Posted on September 14th, 2010
Finances are a major issue for a larger number of Americans now that more are categorized as living in poverty, according to new U.S. Census data. The report showed that the number increased to 14.3 percent in 2009 from 13.2 percent the previous year, which is the highest level seen since 1994.
43.6 Million Americans Living in Poverty
The Census Bureau’s data provided chilling information on the state of our economy:U there were 43.6 million Americans earning an income that placed them below the poverty line in 2009. Unfortunately, that’s just part of the story of the sad state of the American economy.
According to the Census report, the inflation-adjusted income of the median household (which would land in the middle of the populace) fell 4.8 percent between 2000 and 2009. This means median income is currently in a worse position than it was in the 1970s when, despite high unemployment and inflation, it managed to rise 1.9 percent.
Experts who have looked at the Census data say it only proves how difficult a state our economy is in and that it may take quite a lot of time for us to see an America that we can call prosperous–or even normal.
Empower Yourself in a Tough Economy
In a tough economy, it could be easy to feel down on yourself, but there are things you can do to empower yourself in these challenging times:
- Create a budget: One way to better manage the income you have and what you’re spending is to create a family budget. This helps you attain a more organized look at your money and will help you feel that you have more control over your personal finances.
- Spend responsibly: After you’ve created your budget, you will have a better idea of how your income should be distributed. Just be sure you don’t step outside the bounds of your budget to avoid feeling more frustrated about your situation.
- Save when you can: While it may seem impossible to put away money in a down economy, you can do it with a little discipline. Open a high-interest savings account and begin putting $100, $50 or even just $10 in it a month. You’d be surprised by how quickly money adds up and how much more secure you’ll feel with money in the bank.
Also, it’s good to take on activities that could help you relieve stress. Even if you just get out in your garden or take your little ones roller skating around your neighborhood, you have a chance to relieve the pressures that personal finance issues can bring on.
It’s sad to know that more people are bringing in an income below the poverty line. Hopefully, as the economy improves, we’ll see some much needed improvements to personal income.
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