Work

Disentangling Administrative Burden: Why Some Families Forgo TANF Benefits

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Variation in safety net participation in the United States exists across states and demographic groups, but it is stark among programs. Although the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) reaches around 80% of those eligible, Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) reaches only around 20% of families in poverty. This study analyzes semi-structured interviews with nine SNAP recipients who appear to be eligible for TANF to explore the reasons some households choose to apply SNAP but not TANF. Findings highlight the differences in administrative burden present in each program, and the compliance costs of TANF that outweigh the benefits for some families.

Source: Administration & Society

DOI: 10.1177/00953997261497706

Author: Stephanie Walsh

Institution: Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey

Language: English

Topic: Gender, Labor, and Family Dynamics

Subfield: Gender Studies

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: No poverty, Reduced inequalities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,650