Income - Food for the high information voter

An important exercise for anyone responsible for their own and/or any one else's well being.

The primary source for "income" data is the US Census Bureau. You can find your households position here and a more detailed analysis here.

The real challenge starts when you try to form a budget. In this area, Southwest Virginia and Northwest North Carolina, the proportion of the population at the lower side of the distribution scale is higher than the national average and few are really prepared for a layoff or medical emergency. For those motivated by survival, a basic budget and realistic appraisal of disposable income is the place to start. One approach is available from the Economic Policy Institute.

If you are wondering what income redistribution is all about, look at your payroll taxes and then at your parent's and grandparent's Social Security.

I wonder what "Joe the Plumber's" budget looks like.