|
This is a problem and so far no one has found a good solution. I'll give you an example of sorts. Many years ago back in Canada there was a means test for the old age pension (there still is to an extent because if your total income is above some limit the pension can be reduced). However, the means test back then did not even allow you to own your home. Even in the small town I grew up in I recall an elderly couple who had paid all their dues and had acquired a modest cottage but no significant pension, do what many elderly people did. They deeded the house to their son and thus qualified for the pansion. The son ran short of money and sold the house.
The Conservative government of that time (the same one that brought Single Payer to health care) thought this was unfair and abolished the means test.
Perhaps some lazy people are getting the old age pension but I think that solution was for the greater good.
|