Welfare payments, also known as social welfare or public assistance, are financial aid provided by the government to individuals or families in need. There are several synonyms for welfare payments, including benefits, entitlements, assistance, aid, relief, support, and welfare aid. These terms are often used interchangeably to refer to any type of financial assistance provided by government agencies, whether it be in the form of cash, food stamps, or housing subsidies. Despite the negative connotations that sometimes come with the term "welfare," these programs play an important role in ensuring that vulnerable populations have access to basic needs and support during times of hardship.