American Economic Journal:
Economic Policy
ISSN 1945-7731 (Print) | ISSN 1945-774X (Online)
The Welfare Effects of Eligibility Expansions: Theory and Evidence from SNAP
American Economic Journal: Economic Policy
(pp. 61–100)
Abstract
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.Citation
Anders, Jenna, and Charlie Rafkin. 2026. "The Welfare Effects of Eligibility Expansions: Theory and Evidence from SNAP." American Economic Journal: Economic Policy 18 (3): 61–100. DOI: 10.1257/pol.20220738Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- D12 Consumer Economics: Empirical Analysis
- D83 Search; Learning; Information and Knowledge; Communication; Belief; Unawareness
- H53 National Government Expenditures and Welfare Programs
- I12 Health Behavior
- I38 Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty: Government Programs; Provision and Effects of Welfare Programs