Why is welfare called the dole?

Question

I'm not on the dole.

Why is it called the dole?

Answer 1

Becasue they "dole out" money.

tionary.com Unabridged (v 1.1) - Cite This Source - Share This
dole1 /doʊl/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[dohl] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation noun, verb, doled, dol·ing.
–noun 1. a portion or allotment of money, food, etc., esp. as given at regular intervals by a charity or for maintenance.
2. a dealing out or distributing, esp. in charity.
3. a form of payment to the unemployed instituted by the British government in 1918.
4. any similar payment by a government to an unemployed person.
5. Archaic. one's fate or destiny.
–verb (used with object) 6. to distribute in charity.
7. to give out sparingly or in small quantities (usually fol. by out): The last of the water was doled out to the thirsty crew.
—Idiom8. on the dole, receiving payment from the government, as relief: They couldn't afford any luxuries while living on the dole.

Answer 2

In the United Kingdom Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), colloquially known as The Dole, is a form of unemployment benefit that is paid by the government to people who are unemployed and seeking work. It is part of the social security benefits system and is meant to cover the cost of living expenses in periods where the claimant is out of work. It is paid by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP), normally through the local Jobcentre Plus office. It is a working age benefit, and is only available to those 18-60, except in certain circumstances.

Answer 3

I guess because the government is "doling out money." Dole--the distribution especially of money, food, or clothing to the poor. Something to be distributed.

Answer 4

wer is barry