Digital Incentives in Surveys: Response Rates and Sociodemographic Effects in a Large-Scale Parental Nudge Intervention

Kalena Cortes, Brian Holzman, Melissa Gentry and Miranda I. Lambert

No 34653, NBER Working Papers from National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc

Abstract: This study examines how digital incentives influence survey participation and engagement in a large randomized controlled trial of parents across seven Texas school districts. We test how incentive amount and information about vendor options affect response behavior and explore differences by language background. Incentivized parents were more likely to start and complete surveys and claim gift cards, though Spanish-speaking parents exhibited distinct patterns—greater completion rates but lower redemption rates, often selecting essential-goods vendors. Increasing incentive value and providing advance information both improved engagement. Findings inform the design of equitable, effective digital incentive strategies for diverse populations.

JEL-codes: C93 I24 J15 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2026-01
Note: CH ED LS PE
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Working Paper: Digital Incentives in Surveys: Response Rates and Sociodemographic Effects in a Large-Scale Parental Nudge Intervention (2025)
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