Subsistence Level

The subsistence level refers to the minimum amount of income or resources needed for a person or household to meet basic survival needs, such as food, shelter, and clothing. It represents the economic threshold below which individuals cannot sustain a minimally adequate standard of living. Essentially, it indicates the lowest income level necessary to stay alive and maintain basic health, without extra comforts or luxuries. Governments and organizations often use this measure to identify poverty and plan social assistance programs.