What is the definition of an entitlement in the context of government services?

In the context of government services, an entitlement refers to a program or benefit that the government is obligated to provide to individuals who meet certain eligibility criteria, regardless of the overall cost to the government. This means that if someone qualifies for the entitlement, they have a legal right to receive the benefits, and the government must fund these benefits contingent upon maintaining eligibility standards. Examples of entitlements include Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid, where eligible individuals are guaranteed certain services or financial support.

The other choices don’t align with the definition of entitlements. Discretionary programs depend on the annual budget process and are not guaranteed each year, benefits during economic downturns are typically temporary and conditional, and private sector services that receive government subsidies do not constitute entitlements as they aren't legally required to be provided.