Public Assistance Benefits in Minnesota: An Examination of DHS Appeals

Abstract

This paper explores data from Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) Appeals Division to uncover patterns that could contribute to the high dismissal rates in Minnesota of the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Medical Assistance (MA). The authors were given access to appeals data for these programs for January 1 to December 31, 2024. The authors utilized linear probability models as well as geospatial analysis to inform our key findings and recommendations. From these analyses, the authors found that both county and program type influenced the likelihood of an appeal’s dismissal, as well as the type of dismissal issued. Different geospatial patterns were also found across types of dismissals. Due to these findings, it is recommended that DHS extend appeals timelines, simplify the appeal process, identify duplicate clients, continue to investigate dismissals by incorporating demographic and county characteristics, and provide standardized bias training for appeals judges.