Determinants of food stamp program exits

Abstract

This article examines factors that influence Food Stamp Program exits and finds that families who leave the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program are also more likely to leave the Food Stamp Program. However, the influence of TANF departure is smaller in states with large TANF caseload declines. The results also suggest that many families leaving the Food Stamp Program are still eligible for benefits. These families may have poor information on food stamps eligibility in the face of TANF departure or may view Food Stamp Program reauthorization procedures as too costly relative to program benefits.