Indicate whether each of the following is used in the calculation of the official poverty measure, the Supplemental Poverty Measure, or both.(2 points)

Question

Clothing Costs
Food Costs
Housing Costs
Utilities Costs

Answer 1

To determine whether each item is used in the calculation of the official poverty measure, the Supplemental Poverty Measure, or both, here's the breakdown:

1. Clothing Costs: Both - Clothing costs are considered in both the Official Poverty Measure (OPM) and the Supplemental Poverty Measure (SPM).

2. Food Costs: Both - Food costs are a key component in both the Official Poverty Measure and the Supplemental Poverty Measure, as the OPM is based on a threshold that was originally determined by food expenditures.

3. Housing Costs: Supplemental Poverty Measure - Housing costs are included in the Supplemental Poverty Measure but not explicitly in the Official Poverty Measure.

4. Utilities Costs: Supplemental Poverty Measure - Utilities costs are accounted for in the Supplemental Poverty Measure, where the measurement aims to incorporate a broader range of necessary expenses.

So, summarizing:

• Clothing Costs: Both
• Food Costs: Both
• Housing Costs: Supplemental Poverty Measure
• Utilities Costs: Supplemental Poverty Measure