This study is the first to compare the homeownership outcomes of Individual Development Account (IDA) homebuyers with other low-income homebuyers. The IDA homebuyers purchased homes in 16 states with IDA funds between 1999 and 2007. We compare both loan terms and foreclosure outcomes for the IDA...

This paper reviews the literature on poverty dynamics in the U.S. It surveys the most prevalent data, theories, and methods used to answer three key questions: How likely are people to enter, exit, and reenter poverty? How long do people remain in poverty? And what events are associated with...

This paper presents an overall approach, statistical techniques, and a public-use database that can be used for understanding state welfare policies and measuring their relationship with key outcomes of interest, all while learning helpful statistical techniques. We use descriptive statistics...

A primary objective of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) is reducing single mothers' dependence on the welfare system. This objective is sought not only through increased work, but also through changes in household structure — particularly encouraging...

The poverty rate has fallen from over 15 percent in 1993 — one of its highest levels in three decades, to 11.3 percent in 2000 — its lowest level in two decades. What events triggered entries into and exits from poverty during the last three decades? What role do events such as changes in...