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Who Participates in TANF? Variation by Exposure to Work Requirements

Author

Listed:
  • Katherine Richard
  • Lea Bart

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Katherine Richard & Lea Bart, 2026. "Who Participates in TANF? Variation by Exposure to Work Requirements," AEA Papers and Proceedings, American Economic Association, vol. 116, pages 314-319, May.
    • Handle: RePEc:aea:apandp:v:116:y:2026:p:314-319
    DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20261087
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • H75 - Public Economics - - State and Local Government; Intergovernmental Relations - - - State and Local Government: Health, Education, and Welfare
    • I32 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Measurement and Analysis of Poverty
    • I38 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Government Programs; Provision and Effects of Welfare Programs

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