Means testing is used to determine eligibility for which type of programs?

• A. Contributory programs
• B. Universal programs
• C. Noncontributory programs
• D. Private insurance

Answer: (C)

Means testing checks a person’s financial resources to decide if they need a program’s benefits. This approach is used for noncontributory programs, which are funded by general tax revenues and do not require individuals to have paid into the program in the past. Because eligibility hinges on current need, these programs target those with low income or limited assets, such as welfare, food assistance, and some forms of public assistance. By contrast, contributory programs rely on having paid into the system through payroll taxes, with eligibility often linked to those contributions rather than current income. Universal programs provide benefits to everyone regardless of income, so they aren’t means-tested. Private insurance operates outside this framework, typically based on purchase or employer sponsorship rather than eligibility tied to means.