Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs Salary 2025: $54,210 Median, Outlook & How to Become One
The median salary for eligibility interviewers, government programs is $54,210 per year, according to the latest Bureau of Labor Statistics data. That works out to roughly $26 per hour. The typical range runs from $38,900 at the 10th percentile to $74,690 at the 90th, so experienced workers in high-cost areas can earn substantially more.
These professionals interview applicants and recipients to determine their eligibility for government benefits like Medicaid, SNAP, and housing assistance. It's a stable field with 154,800 positions nationwide and about 14,000 openings each year due to turnover and retirements.
How much Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs earn
The national mean wage is $56,090, which supports the median figure of $54,210. Hourly, the mean comes out to about $27, slightly above the median due to higher earners pulling the average up.
Entry-level workers (10th percentile) earn around $38,900, while top earners (90th percentile) make $74,690. That gap reflects differences in location, experience, and specific agency.
- Median annual salary: $54,210
- Mean annual salary: $56,090 ($26.97/hour)
- 10th percentile: $38,900
- 90th percentile: $74,690
Pay by state
Where you work heavily influences your paycheck. The District of Columbia pays the highest average at $74,080, followed by Connecticut ($71,940), Michigan ($66,830), and Washington ($66,330). Massachusetts rounds out the top five at $64,750.
On the lower end, South Carolina averages $38,670, Florida $37,230, and Mississippi $36,840. The gap between D.C. and Mississippi is roughly $37,000 — a huge difference for the same job title.
How to become Eligibility Interviewers, Government Program
Most employers require a high school diploma or equivalent, though many prefer some college coursework or an associate degree in a related field like social work or public administration. On-the-job training is common.
- Get a high school diploma or GED. Coursework in computer applications, math, and writing helps.
- Consider an associate or bachelor's degree in social work, public administration, or a similar field to boost competitiveness.
- Apply for entry-level positions with state or local agencies. Many offer structured training programs lasting a few weeks to several months.
- Develop skills in interviewing, data entry, and knowledge of eligibility rules for programs like Medicaid and SNAP.
Job outlook
Employment for eligibility interviewers is projected to grow only 1% from 2024 to 2034, which is slower than the average for all occupations. That said, about 14,000 openings are expected each year, mostly to replace workers who retire or leave the field.
The slow growth reflects automation and streamlined online application systems. However, the need for personal interviews in complex cases and for programs with high demand means the occupation won't disappear.
Frequently asked questions
What is the salary for eligibility interviewers, government programs in 2025?
The national median salary is $54,210 per year, with a typical range of $38,900 to $74,690.
How do you become an eligibility interviewer for government programs?
Most jobs require a high school diploma and on-the-job training. An associate or bachelor's degree in a related field can improve your chances.
What is the job growth outlook for eligibility interviewers?
The BLS projects 1% growth from 2024 to 2034, slower than average, but about 14,000 openings per year are expected due to turnover.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Eligibility Interviewers, Government Programs data.