Trends in AFDC and Food Stamp Benefits: 1972-1994

From 1972 to 1994, Aid to Families with Dependent Children (AFDC) benefits declined in constant dollars almost without interruption from $8,735 for a mother and two children with no earnings to $4,738. Since food stamps are indexed for inflation, AFDC benefits became a significantly smaller share of the combined total of benefits. Total benefits declined sharply in the 1970s, remained stable during the 1980s, and began to decline again in the 1990s. (ASPE Research Notes, Volume 13) [5 PDF pages]