Define: Entitlements

In legal terms, “entitlements” typically refer to rights or benefits that an individual or entity is legally entitled to receive under law, contract, or government program. Entitlements can take various forms, including social welfare benefits, contractual obligations, property rights, or legal privileges. Examples of entitlements may include Social Security benefits, Medicare or Medicaid coverage, pension benefits, insurance claims, inheritance rights, or entitlements arising from contractual agreements such as employment contracts or lease agreements. Entitlements are typically conferred upon individuals or entities based on specific criteria, such as age, income level, employment status, or legal relationships. Ensuring that entitlements are properly recognised, protected, and enforced is an essential aspect of legal advocacy and representation, particularly in cases involving disputes over benefits, entitlement programs, or contractual obligations.

Entitlements are government benefits provided by law to eligible individuals. Entitlements are typically for citizens only. In the US, major entitlements include the Medicaid, Medicare, and Social Security programs. As the name implies, entitlements tend to become politically difficult to change, as recipients come to feel entitled to what they have been receiving. Without changes, entitlements expenditure is expected to grow significantly in the coming years. Of all the entitlements, Medicare is expected to escalate in cost the most quickly, primarily due to the combined effects of anticipated rising health care costs and the expanding senior citizen population. Over the long term, without entitlements reform, taxes will have to be raised significantly, discretionary spending will have to be sharply reduced, or both.

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 29th March 2024.