What does a "harsh means tested" social welfare program imply?

A "harsh means tested" social welfare program implies that only individuals who demonstrate extreme financial need are eligible for assistance. In such programs, eligibility criteria are typically stringent, requiring applicants to prove that their income and resources are below a certain threshold. This threshold is often set at a low level, ensuring that only those facing severe financial hardship can access the support. The core idea is that the program is designed to allocate limited resources to those who are in the most dire circumstances, limiting assistance to those who truly cannot meet their basic needs without outside help.

In contrast, programs that are less stringent may allow a broader range of individuals who might only be experiencing moderate difficulties to qualify for assistance, while harsher programs prioritize the most vulnerable and marginalized populations. Therefore, the focus on "extreme need" highlights the challenges faced by recipients, as they often endure significant hardship before qualifying for support.