Objective This article empirically examines the causal relationships among individuals who do not ask for assistance and the welfare systems involved. We analyze the following questions: Who does not seek assistance? What is the probability of identifying someone who does not seek assistance in different welfare systems? and What role does the system play in influencing someone not to seek assistance? Methods We use a rare events logit model that indicates the influence of various types of welfare systems and support networks on the circumstances in which support is not requested. Data came from the 2001 ISSP. Results The results indicate that people who do not request assistance have small or nonexistent support networks and therefore no one from which to seek help. Conclusion This analysis confirmed the importance of the cultural contexts of welfare systems and how they influence the behavior of those who do not seek support.