Which group is described as the only nonworking, able-bodied poor people who receive federal cash assistance?

• A. Parents caring for children.
• B. Elderly individuals on social security.
• C. Unemployed youth.
• D. Immigrants

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is who qualifies for federal cash assistance as a nonworking, able-bodied poor. In the U.S., cash aid aimed at the poor has traditionally targeted families with dependent children, because the program is designed to ensure kids have financial support even if the parent isn’t working. The elderly receiving Social Security are covered by a social insurance program funded by payroll taxes, not need-based cash welfare, so they aren’t described as the able-bodied poor receiving federal cash assistance. Unemployed youth generally don’t receive ongoing federal cash assistance for poverty relief, and immigrants face various restrictions that limit their eligibility for federal cash aid. Therefore, parents caring for children are the group that best fits the description of nonworking, able-bodied individuals receiving federal cash assistance to support dependents.