Definition: Support of and assistance to needy persons contingent upon their need. Excludes pensions to former employees and other benefits not contingent on need. Includes cash assistance paid directly to needy persons under the categorical programs (Old Age Assistance, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, Aid to the Blind and Aid to the Disabled) and under any other welfare programs; vendor payments made directly to private purveyors for medical care, burials and other commodities and services provided under welfare programs; provision and operation by the government of welfare institutions including nursing homes not directly associated with a government hospital; and payments to other governments for welfare purposes, amounts for administration, support of private welfare agencies and other public welfare services.

Footnote: Fiscal year data

Data Source: U.S. Census Bureau