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The Impact of Electronic Benefit Transfer on Participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program

Author

Listed:
  • Pei Zhou
  • Yuqing Zheng
  • Harry M. Kaiser
  • Miguel I. Gómez
  • Lingxiao Wang
  • Diansheng Dong

Abstract

This study investigates the impact of the implementation of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) on Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation using Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID) data from 1992 to 2007. The findings indicate a significant increase (1.6% for our benchmark model) in SNAP participation post‐EBT implementation, but smaller in magnitude compared with previous studies. The results also show significant differences in impacts across different demographic and socioeconomic groups. The event study results suggest that these effects may not be instantaneous, and show pronounced and sustainable impacts approximately 2 years after statewide EBT implementation. Understanding these nuanced impacts is crucial for policymakers to better tailor outreach and implementation efforts across different populations.

Suggested Citation

  • Pei Zhou & Yuqing Zheng & Harry M. Kaiser & Miguel I. Gómez & Lingxiao Wang & Diansheng Dong, 2026. "The Impact of Electronic Benefit Transfer on Participation in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program," Agricultural Economics, International Association of Agricultural Economists, vol. 57(2), March.
    • Handle: RePEc:bla:agecon:v:57:y:2026:i:2:n:e70109
    DOI: 10.1111/agec.70109
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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