AEA Papers and Proceedings
ISSN 2574-0768 (Print) | ISSN 2574-0776 (Online)
Who Participates in TANF? Variation by Exposure to Work Requirements
AEA Papers and Proceedings
(pp. 314–319)
Abstract
Since its enactment in 1996, participation in the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program has steadily declined. This paper uses administrative records covering the universe of Michigan TANF participants between 2010 and 2018 to characterize how the TANF caseload changed over this period, which spanned policy reforms that reduced time limits and increased penalties for violating work requirements. We identify important compositional differences between participants that are subject to work requirements relative to those who are not, and between participants who comply with work requirements relative to those who violate them.Citation
Richard, Katherine, and Lea Bart. 2026. "Who Participates in TANF? Variation by Exposure to Work Requirements." AEA Papers and Proceedings 116: 314–319. DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20261087Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- H75 State and Local Government: Health; Education; Welfare; Public Pensions
- I32 Measurement and Analysis of Poverty
- I38 Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty: Government Programs; Provision and Effects of Welfare Programs