Who can get on welfare?

Answer 1

• To be eligible for welfare, an applicant must be a U.S. citizen or lawfully admitted to the country for permanent residence
• A Social Security number is needed for someone to receive welfare benefits, even for a child
• Adults often must meet certain work requirements to be eligible. These can vary depending on the programs and the states in which they are seeking aid. Generally, recipients are expected to seek employment or training. Some states provide work training and employment search programs geared specifically toward welfare recipients.
• In certain circumstances, a person might be exempt from work requirements. For example, an individual in a single-parent household that includes a child who is less than 12 months old might be temporarily excused from having to be seeking employment. Temporarily or permanently disabled recipients or people who are enrolled in substance abuse programs also might be excused. Additionally, people who are otherwise eligible for aid but are attending college might be eligible for a work exemption.
• Depending on the state and specific program, there might be special requirements for single and separated parents regarding their dependent children and child support. Typically, recipients must seek child support and meet certain child support and parenting requirements, including efforts to find an absent parent. After child support is granted, the government might claim some or all of it to compensate for the aid that is being provided. Exemptions from child support cooperation are made for good cause, such as proven domestic violence situations.
• As of 2012, many states were considering additional eligibility requirements. For example, some states were debating whether applicants should have to be drug tested on a regular basis. Other states were considering requiring photo identification for someone to claim a welfare check. Some states also were discussing whether recipients should have to perform community service.