Working households often don't realize that an extra hour per week or modest raise can actually reduce their total income after benefits phase out—a problem most visible in childcare subsidies, housing assistance, and income-based programs. Identifying these cliffs before accepting work changes lets you make informed decisions about which opportunities are genuinely worth taking.
A benefit cliff occurs when a small increase in earned income causes a disproportionate loss of government benefits, leaving a household financially worse off despite earning more money.
This trap is common across SNAP, Medicaid, housing assistance, and childcare subsidy programs and can discourage employment. AI can model your income scenarios, map which benefits would be reduced or eliminated at different wage levels, and help you make informed decisions about job offers, raises, or additional work hours.
Peri can explain this concept, give practical examples, help you decide whether it applies to your situation, or recommend a journey if appropriate.
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