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Increasing Stimulus Payment Take-up in California: Results from a Phone and Email Campaign

The Increasing Stimulus Payment Take-up in California report by the California Policy Lab examines barriers to accessing federal stimulus payments and provides strategies to increase take-up among eligible Californians, particularly low-income and non-filers.

Organizations: California Policy Lab, The People Lab

Authors: Jessica Lasky-Fink, Elizabeth Linos, Aparna Ramesh, Jesse Rothstein

Published Year: 2022

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This report analyzes the challenges that prevented some Californians from receiving their federal Economic Impact Payments (stimulus checks) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It highlights key obstacles such as lack of tax filing requirements, digital access issues, and limited awareness among eligible individuals. The study presents data-driven strategies to improve outreach, including targeted communication campaigns, simplifying enrollment processes, and leveraging trusted community organizations to assist non-filers. The report offers policy recommendations for increasing participation in future direct cash assistance programs, ensuring that vulnerable populations can access the financial relief they are entitled to.