Living Wage criteria are based on data from the MIT Living Wage Calculator as well as best practices from living wage certification programs across the globe. Determining a living wage is not a static process, and the Northern Virginia Living Wage Certification program seeks to handle the adaptive nature of living wages in a way that is considerate of the needs of employees and employers alike. The program reserves the right to revisit criteria yearly and make any necessary adjustments to better reflect principles of upholding dignity for workers and adding value to area employers.