Examines whether differences between respondents and nonrespondents in a survey of Iowa families that left TANF resulted in findings that overstated the economic well-being of these families. Finds that nonrespondents were less likely to have health insurance and more likely to have...

Examines LBP recidivism, finding that about one-fourth of Iowa welfare recipients who are assigned to the LBP get assigned again for failing to comply with program rules, and that most manage to make ends meet, even when their benefits temporarily stop.

Assesses the effects of employment on family well-being for current and former TANF recipients in Iowa who gained employment. Finds that when parents were employed, they reported aggregate improvements in family income, standard of living, parental self-esteem, parenting skills, and how their...

Examines a statewide program that uses performance-based contracting to provide pre- and postemployment services to TANF recipients in Pennsylvania, finding that referrals to the program have been low where caseloads have dropped precipitously and that performance-based contracting has...

Federal law permits American Indian tribes to operate TANF programs for their members, an option that entails benefits as well as risks and costs. This reports discusses the experiences of 10 tribes and examines the benefits, as well as challenges and lessons, from the experience. It notes that...

Looks at 16 families who left TANF in spring 1999 and reported $500 or less in family income to see how they make ends meet. Focuses on sources of income and expenses, strategies for making ends meet, and family well-being, noting that most families had earnings from employment, but low pay,...