Access and Eligibility Criteria

Access and eligibility criteria are the rules or requirements that determine whether someone can use a service or benefit. Access refers to the ability to reach or use the service, such as location or hours of operation. Eligibility criteria are specific qualifications or conditions someone must meet—like age, income level, or membership status—to qualify for the service. Together, they ensure that resources are provided fairly and appropriately to those who meet the set standards.