In this study, David Greenberg and Douglas Wolf describe, systematize, and evaluate the cost effectiveness of computerized anti-fraud procedures in public welfare programs. In particular, they discusss the Congressionally mandated wage matching systems used to check for under-reported or non-reported incomes of participants in the AFDC and Food Stamp Programs. The authors describe the implementation of such systems in several local areas around the country, point out factors that currently impede the use of wage matching, and suggest ways of reducing such impediments. They also enumerate the advantages and disadvantages of alternative wage matching procedures and techniques, both in theory and practice. Cost benefit analyses of four existing wage matching systems are then presented. Finally, the authors present their conclusions and make recommendations. This volume is complete with a flow chart showing the operation of a typical wage-matching system, and a table summarizing the costs and benefits to the government of running such systems.

This futures study discusses the impact that smart card technology will have on California's welfare system within the next 5 to 10 years, in terms of relieving an overburdened system and eliminating various types of welfare fraud. The paper identified several trends used to forecast the impact of smart card technology; the top five trends included level of public funding for welfare programs, population of welfare recipients in California, level of computer technology used by the welfare system, public attitudes toward welfare fraud, and cost of technology. The top five events incorporated into the futures analysis included Statewide computer system going online, Federal approval for California to distribute electronic benefits, welfare recipients required to obtain State identification card, funding approved for smart card implementation, and combined regulations for different welfare entitlement programs. Results of the analysis are presented as most likely, least desirable, and most desirable scenarios; strategic management and transition management plans are outlined to achieve the most desirable outcome.

This journal article, based on a futures study entitled: Impact of smart card technology on welfare fraud in California by the year 2002, discusses the impact that smart card technology will have on California's welfare system within the next 5 to 10 years, in terms of relieving an overburdened system and eliminating various types of welfare fraud. The paper identified several trends used to forecast the impact of smart card technology; the top five trends included level of public funding for welfare programs, population of welfare recipients in California, level of computer technology used by the welfare system, public attitudes toward welfare fraud, and cost of technology. The top five events incorporated into the futures analysis included Statewide computer system going online, Federal approval for California to distribute electronic benefits, welfare recipients required to obtain State identification card, funding approved for smart card implementation, and combined regulations for different welfare entitlement programs. Results of the analysis are presented as most likely, least desirable, and most desirable scenarios; strategic management and transition management plans are outlined to achieve the most desirable outcome.

Discusses the history and prevalence of welfare fraud using interviews and case studies.