Can reducing administrative burdens increase benefit amounts? Evidence from SNAP simplified reporting

Abstract

Relaxing administrative burdens can boost enrollment in benefit programs. However, administrative burdens can influence other outcomes of interest. Simplified reporting is a state policy option that reduces the amount of information Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients must report between certifications. Using SNAP Quality Control data, I find that simplified reporting meaningfully and robustly reduced SNAP payment error rates and increased SNAP benefits. The results imply that easing certain administrative burdens can, not only stimulate program uptake, but also increase benefit levels.