bedürftigkeitsabhängiger

Bedürftigkeit, in the context of social policy, denotes the condition of lacking sufficient resources to meet basic living needs. It is often understood in relation to income, assets, family size, and the required standard of living. The term underpins welfare eligibility in many welfare systems and is contrasted with universal or non- means-tested support.

Bedürftigkeitsprüfung (means testing) is the process by which authorities assess whether a person or household qualifies for benefits because their resources do not cover essential needs. The assessment typically involves evaluating all relevant income (from work, pensions, benefits, or other sources) and certain assets, while recognizing exemptions or protected assets. Household composition and the local cost of living can influence the calculation. The outcome determines entitlement to support such as basic security, housing assistance, or other social benefits.

In practice, Germany provides a well-known context for this approach through provisions in the Social Code (SGB II and SGB XII). There, the calculation of needs combines a standard amount with housing costs and possible subsidies, while some assets are protected (Schonvermögen) and others may reduce benefit levels. The process can also involve income adjustments and periodic reviews to reflect changing circumstances.

Critics argue that means tests can be complex, intrusive, and stigmatizing, and may create disincentives to work or save. Proponents emphasize targeting and efficiency in allocating finite welfare resources. Debates continue about the balance between adequacy of support, fairness, and administrative burden within different welfare models.