State variations in supplemental security income enrollment for children and adolescents

Abstract

Objectives. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of poverty, program generosity, and health on state variations in enrollment of children and adolescents in the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program during recent program expansions. Methods. The relationship of state SSI rates for 1989 and 1992 to child poverty, health, and program generosity were determined by multiple regression. Results. The mean percentage of children enrolled grew from 0.36% (1989) to 0.75% (1992). Poverty rates accounted for 78% of the variance among states in 1989 and 53% in 1992. Other indicators accounted for little variance. Conclusions. Differences in state poverty levels explained almost all variation in SSI enrollment.