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The Financial Consequences of Being Denied Benefit Access

Author

Listed:
  • Tatiana Homonoff
  • Min S. Lee
  • Katherine Meckel

Abstract

We examine the causal impact of being denied benefit access on the financial well-being of marginally-excluded households. Using experimental and quasi-random variation in the flexibility of mandatory intake interviews and a unique linkage between administrative Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and credit report data, we find that households screened out of SNAP due to administrative barriers suffer tangible downstream economic consequences. Specifically, we find that process-related denials increase debt and delinquencies, and decrease credit scores. These results highlight the economic importance of implementation design and its role in strengthening (or undermining) the financial protection provided by social insurance programs.

Suggested Citation

  • Tatiana Homonoff & Min S. Lee & Katherine Meckel, 2025. "The Financial Consequences of Being Denied Benefit Access," NBER Working Papers 34434, National Bureau of Economic Research, Inc.
    • Handle: RePEc:nbr:nberwo:34434
    Note: CH EH PE
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • D14 - Microeconomics - - Household Behavior - - - Household Saving; Personal Finance
    • H53 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Government Expenditures and Welfare Programs
    • I38 - Health, Education, and Welfare - - Welfare, Well-Being, and Poverty - - - Government Programs; Provision and Effects of Welfare Programs

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