Terms Used to Describe Social Welfare Programs

SOC Final Exam Resources

What is a universal social welfare program?

A program that provides benefits to everyone in society, regardless of income or other personal circumstances

Who qualifies for benefits under a universal program?

Every eligible individual in the population, without income-based restrictions

Can you give an example of a universal program in the U.S

Medicare (based on age, not income), public education, and Social Security (universal in coverage with age and work history criteria)

How does a universal program differ from a means-tested program?

Universal programs are for everyone, while means-tested programs are only for those who meet specific income and asset limits

What does “means-tested” mean in the context of social policy?

It refers to programs that only provide benefits to individuals or families who fall below certain income and asset thresholds

What is the purpose of means-testing?

To ensure limited resources are targeted toward those with the greatest financial need

Who is typically eligible for means-tested programs?

Low-income individuals and families who meet specific eligibility criteria

Name two examples of means-tested programs in the U.S.

1. Medicaid

2. Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)

What is an entitlement program?

A program where eligible individuals have a legal right to benefits if they meet the program’s established criteria

How is eligibility for entitlement programs determined?

By meeting the program’s defined criteria such as age, income, work history, or disability status

What is the significance of the legal right associated with entitlement programs?

Individuals can enforce their right to benefit in court if it is denied unfairly

List at least 4 examples of federal entitlement programs

1. Social Security

2. Medicare

3. Medicaid

4. Unemployment Insurance

5. SNAP

6. Veteran’s Benefits

What are in-kind benefits?

Non-cash benefits provided to individuals that can only be used for specific goods or servicesH

How do in-kind benefits differ from cash benefits?

In-kind benefits are restricted to specific uses (e.g. food or housing), while cash benefits can be spent freely

What are some examples of in-kind benefits provided by the U.S. government?

• SNAP (food)

• Housing vouchers

• Medicaid (health care services)

Why might a government choose to offer in-kind rather than cash benefits?

To ensure that the benefit is used for its intended purpose, such as food, shelter, or medical care

How is a universal program similar to and different from an entitlement program?

Both guarantee benefits, but universal programs apply to everyone, while entitlements require meeting specific criteria (which may or may not be income-based)

Can an entitlement program also be means-tested? Provide an example

Yes! Medicaid is an example - it is a means-tested entitlement program; if you meet the criteria, you are legally entitled to benefits

What are some pros and cons of in-kind benefits compared to cash transfers?

Pros:

• Ensures spending on essential needs (e.g. food, housing)

Cons:

• Limits recipient autonomy and may not address all individual priorities