Applicants to federal aid programs face numerous barriers in accessing benefits they are eligible for. The Centers for Medicaid and Medicare conducted an extensive qualitative user research study to better understand applicant experience in enrolling in public assistance programs. Based on the results, the study emphasizes the need for simplified, streamlined and less burdensome application processes.
This study explores the causal impacts of income on a rich array of employment outcomes, leveraging an experiment in which 1,000 low-income individuals were randomized into receiving $1,000 per month unconditionally for three years, with a control group of 2,000 participants receiving $50/month.
The report evaluates the feasibility, costs, taxpayer interest, and operational challenges of implementing an IRS-run free direct e-file tax return system, as required by the Inflation Reduction Act.
This brief outlines the U.S. federal government’s framework to identify, reduce, and address administrative burdens through a series of executive orders, legislative actions, and updated policies focused on improving customer experience and increasing access to government benefits.
This panel discussion from the Academy's 2025 Policy Summit explores the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and public benefits, examining how technological advancements are influencing policy decisions and the delivery of social services.
This page includes data and observations about account creation and identity proofing steps specifically for online applications that include MAGI Medicaid.
This is a modular, dynamic roadmap guides the U.S. HHS's ongoing implementation of open data policies while inviting public collaboration and feedback.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
Led by the Digital Benefits Network in partnership with Public Policy Lab, the Digital Doorways research project amplifies the lived experiences of beneficiaries to provide new insights into people’s experiences with digital identity processes and technology in public benefits. This report details the project’s findings, directly highlighting the voices of beneficiaries through videos and photos.
The Public Design Evidence Review examines how design practices can improve public policies and services across the UK, exploring what good “public design” looks like, how it’s being used, and what enables or inhibits its impact.
