The Benefits Engine — A Case Study of Personalized Benefits Recommendations for New Yorkers
This blog covers the Benefits Engine, a tool that uses existing application data to recommend additional benefits New Yorkers may qualify for.
The article describes how the Benefits Engine was developed as a minimum viable product linked to the MyCity child care portal.
Launched in May 2024, it analyzes existing application data to identify other programs applicants might qualify for, delivering personalized suggestions through a one-time email within 48 hours. Built with privacy—using anonymized data processing—and designed through co‑design sessions with both residents and agency experts, this feature has achieved a 41 percent opt‑in rate and an impressive 87 percent email open rate, showing strong user engagement with programs like Housing Connect, SNAP, and IDNYC.
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