Eligibility criteria for social welfare programs

Framework graphic with the entry point 'Simplify Access to Benefits & Services' highlighted

EVIDENCE-BASED STRATEGY

Initiatives eliminate restrictive or complex eligibility criteria (e.g., the need to meet all criteria to qualify).

SAMPLE INDICATORS

Take-up rates among eligible groups

EVIDENCE-BASED STRATEGY

Initiatives eliminate complex application processes (e.g., requiring extensive documentation) and enrolment procedures. Through interdepartmental coordination, initiatives implement one-stop-shops to integrate social welfare services fully and also provide support for tax-filing to ensure eligibility for federal programs and services.

SAMPLE INDICATORS

Number/percentage of eligible people who report needing support to navigate the application process (e.g., in-person assistance)
Availability of one-stop-shop websites to access social services
Number/percentage of eligible people who agree with the statement that the application process (in-person, online, or via telephone) is straightforward and fast
Take-up of social welfare programs relative to need
Number/percentage of eligible people who report receiving assistance for filing their taxes

EVIDENCE-BASED STRATEGY

Government units ensure all departments involved in social welfare provision share a common understanding of application and assessment processes, using the same explicit, clear guidelines and procedures to define eligibility.

SAMPLE INDICATORS

Applicants’ perceptions of (in)consistent eligibility criteria across government sectors
Rates of appeals and reconsideration requests for benefit approval

EVIDENCE-BASED STRATEGY

Government units adapt criteria, protocols, and eligibility criteria for social welfare to (i) acknowledge the reality of diverse family arrangements (e.g., an unemployed person who does not live with their children, but is still responsible to provide food) and (ii) be responsive to demographic changes and social relationships within and across individuals and families.

SAMPLE INDICATORS

Number/percentage of people who are not afraid that life changes would compromise their eligibility for the program
Number/percentage of people who feel the transition to other benefits (when needed) is smooth
Level of agreement with the statement that meaningful information about benefits is readily available