RT Journal Article SR Electronic T1 Price Consciousness at the Peak of “Impatience” JF Journal of Human Resources JO J Hum Resour FD University of Wisconsin Press SP 1003 OP 1027 DO 10.3368/jhr.59.1.0121-11411 VO 58 IS 3 A1 Zaki, Mary A1 Todd, Jessica E. YR 2023 UL http://jhr.uwpress.org/content/58/3/1003.abstract AB Past studies consistently document that consumption among low-income households spikes after income receipt and then subsequently declines. Using two approaches to analyze linked survey and administrative data on food purchases, we find that SNAP recipients are most price-conscious and engage in their most successful price-saving efforts soon after benefit receipt. This contrasts with prior literature that posits recipients mistakenly feel “flush” with money after benefit receipt and injects forethought and savviness among SNAP recipients into the prevailing narrative that they lack self-control and capability. The frequency of benefit receipt may act as a savings commitment device that funds price-saving efforts.