Online Information About Key Low-Income Benefit Programs


 

Publication Date: July 2004

Publisher: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (Washington, D.C.)

Author(s): Sharon Parrott

Research Area: Media, telecommunications, and information; Social conditions

Keywords: Economic inequality; Economic projections; Household income; State budgets

Type: Report

Abstract:

Virtually all states have made information regarding the five main state-administered low-income benefit programs — food stamps, Medicaid, SCHIP, TANF and child care — available to the public via the internet. There is significant variation between what online information is provided across states. Some provide a simple description of each program on their agencies websites. Others offer additional information, such as application forms, eligibility screening tools, and policy and procedure manuals used by state agency caseworkers. A few states allow individuals to apply for certain types of benefits online.