Means-tested government antipoverty programs are particularly designed to decrease the poverty of people who are in genuine need by providing them with government assistance. Proponents of these programs claim means testing enables the government to select and help the most deserving people and to provide these people with cash, food, and services. Supporters also argue that these programs are successful in reducing poverty. However, these programs often are difficult to administer and employ complicated application processes, and some seriously question their effectiveness in decreasing poverty.

Means-tested antipoverty programs have been used by the governments of different countries around the world with different application methods and different results. This entry will focus on the American system, which is rigorously arranged to direct benefits to the right people ...