The Welfare Effects of Eligibility Expansions: Theory and Evidence from SNAP

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Anders, Jenna; Rafkin, Charlie
• 署名单位: University of Virginia; University of British Columbia
• 刊物名称: AMERICAN ECONOMIC JOURNAL-ECONOMIC POLICY
• ISSN/ISSBN: 1945-7731
• DOI: 10.1257/pol.20220738
• 发表日期: 2026
• 关键词: FOOD STAMP; Take-up; disability insurance; social image; PARTICIPATION; medicaid; program; incentives; transfers; NORMS

摘要

We study how eligibility expansions in the US Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) affect take-up among previously eligible households and social welfare. Using an event study with administrative take-up data, we document a woodwork effect: Expanding eligibility raises take-up among previously eligible households. An online experiment and administrative survey provide evidence that information frictions, rather than stigma, drive SNAP's woodwork effect. To interpret our findings, we develop a model of welfare programs with incomplete take-up and woodwork effects. Given our empirical results and certain modeling assumptions, expanding SNAP eligibility would raise social welfare. (JEL D12, D83, H53, I12, I38)