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

Jenna Anders and Charlie Rafkin

American Economic Journal: Economic Policy, 2026, vol. 18, issue 3, 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.

JEL-codes: D12 D83 H53 I12 I38 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1257/pol.20220738

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