Five Things You May Not Know about the US Social Safety Net

This Urban Institute research brief offers a set of demographic data and definitions that addresses misconceptions about the reach of U.S. safety net programs. In particular, the analysis distinguishes between “means tested” and universally received benefit programs and those supports that are received monthly compared to those received annually. Programs outlined and reviewed in this report are SNAP; Supplemental Security Income; TANF cash assistance; public or subsidized housing; Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children; and the Child Care and Development Fund.