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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 4h

To access Medicaid or SNAP, people have to prove their income. Consent-based verification lets them give a state permission to check it directly with their employer. But trust is one of the biggest barriers. How would you build it? Here's what we've learned: bit.ly/4hVRYGA #CivicTech

Streamlining Income Verification in Benefits Applications
How states can think through implementing processes like consent-based verification technology

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 20h

What an incredible #FormFest2026! We heard repeatedly how powerful a well-designed form can be for improving user experience—and therefore how much power form designers have in shaping someone’s interaction with government. Read our reflections: bit.ly/4xSjjOM

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 25/09/2026

“The law says that a person is eligible to get their record cleared, and let's just make that happen.” On The Government Fix, we’re speaking with Dr. Sheena Meade, CEO of The Clean Slate Initiative, about bipartisan support for clean slate legislation. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts.

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 16/09/2026

How are local governments approaching language access? In “Breaking Language Barriers: Automated Service Request Forms,” we’re talking about innovations in the language access space with the City of San Antonio. Sessions from #FormFest2026 will be on our YouTube channel.

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 14/09/2026

⏰Time is running out! Wednesday is #FormFest 2026. Join Code for America and the Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation for a free virtual event on the future of form design. Register before September 15 at 11:59 p.m. ET. ➡️ bit.ly/45J9l6d

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 09/09/2026

The strongest disaster response is rooted in preparation. Systems work better and faster by putting people, processes, and technology in place in advance. Here's how governments can be better equipped when it matters most: bit.ly/4xe0TaS #NationalPreparednessMonth

Communicate quickly on familiar platforms
In a disaster, information loses value by the minute. People need to know what’s happening, where to get help, and what they should do next.

Do: Use trusted channels on the platforms people already use

Don’t: Put critical information on a new app or hard-to-find web page

Text messaging can be an effective way to communicate and build trust →

Text people today to establish trust tomorrow

Build trusted communication channels— like text messaging—in advance. This helps governments focus on sending the right message during a crisis, not on the logistics of reaching people.

Establish trusted text messages by:
Sharing specific information
Writing in plain language
Directing clients to useful resources

Centralize the information that people need
In moments of crisis, clarity is critical. A government well-prepared for disaster should work across agencies to:
Keep important information and offerings in one place
Build a centralized portal for emergency services
Leverage smart design principles to reduce cognitive overwhelm
This helps people focus on recovery,
not research.

Be ready to rapidly deploy new programs

Some disasters demand entirely new systems that must move fast and scale without sacrificing accuracy or access.

Prepare in advance by building capacity to design, launch, and iterate programs quickly. This requires:
Strong cross-agency collaboration
Modern technical infrastructure
A willingness to simplify processes

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 03/09/2026

We're looking to partner with IRS-certified VITA organizations for the 2027 filing season. If your program wants to extend its reach, we can help you expand your impact and bring free virtual tax filing to your community. Learn more and apply today: bit.ly/4wcGjre

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 20/08/2026

Data, Rust, and Python fans, there's still time to get the latest #HumbleBundle and support our work. Pay what you want for Python for Data Analysis, Think Python, and more. Tomorrow is your last chance to grab the bundle: bit.ly/4wYBgM5 @humblebundle.com

A book bundle titled "Python, Rust, and Data" by O'Reilly is shown. The cover images feature various animals, such as a bear, rat, snake, and crab, across titles like "Python in a Nutshell" "Command-Line Rust," "Python for Data Analysis," and "Causal Inference in Python."

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 10/08/2026

Python, Rust, and Data. The latest @humblebundle.com book bundle has it all. Pay what you want for up to 18 books and support our mission. Get your #HumbleBundle today: bit.ly/4wYBgM5

O'Reilly Python, Rust, and Data Books
Get a bundle of books for $25

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 05/08/2026

Civic technologists use Python to create tools that help people access government services. That's why we're excited to be featured in the latest #HumbleBundle: Python, Rust, and Data. Pay what you want and support our work. Get your @humblebundle.com today: bit.ly/4wYBgM5

O'Reilly Python, Rust and Data Book Bundle
Supporting Code for America

Book covers: Python for Data Analysis, Learning Python, Think Python, Programming Rust

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 04/08/2026

Registration is open for #FormFest2026! 🙌 Join us and @beeckcenter.bsky.social on September 16 to ignite innovation in government forms like never before. Learn more and register for this free virtual event. Register today! formfest.org

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 03/08/2026

New guidance released by the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services has many states working to rebuild their Medicaid systems to meet new federal work requirements. With the January 1 deadline, here's how states can take action now to mitigate as much harm as possible: bit.ly/4pPNbsA

Utilize Data Integration
Minimize the information you request from clients when you already have access to that data. Data sharing agreements with other state programs can empower exchanges of this information. By reducing redundant requests, states save caseworker time and reduce the risk of error.

Sequence Steps to Compliance
Clients should be routed through efficient pathways to compliance, in as few steps as possible. When first evaluating clients, establish if work requirements apply, and only proceed forward if they do. Verify exemptions and compliance with automation first. Request more information only if automation fails.

Prioritize Client Communication
Coverage losses occur primarily due to lack of awareness and understanding, not eligibility. Communication systems and processes are a core component of implementation. Medicaid regulations require multichannel outreach. Texts, emails, and e-notices will reach clients more quickly and reliably than mail.

Involve the Medical Community
With the narrower interpretation of medical frailty requirements, the medical community has a more important role in making sure that eligible people get and keep coverage. Involving medical providers in reporting, verifying, and advocating for clients will provide benefits for states, clients, and providers themselves.

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 31/07/2026

Government systems have improved, but keeping pace with people's needs means moving even faster. In our episode of USA Today's America 250, we talk about what it takes to modernize government systems as fast as people's needs are changing. Watch here: youtu.be/e3jmFyd_RXY

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 22/07/2026

The average SNAP Payment Error Rate for a state is roughly 10.26%—well above the 6% threshold that triggers cost-sharing responsibilities under H.R. 1. That could mean millions in new financial liability for some states. Making smart policy choices can help lower it: bit.ly/4eqJ0hE

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 21/07/2026

How can technology support place-based initiatives? When used well, it helps partners stay organized, share information, track progress, and coordinate their work more effectively. Check out our toolkit for local governments and organizations: bit.ly/4aYFpqm

Thoughtfully Implementing Technology at the Local Level

We’ve created a toolkit for local government agencies and organizations leading place-based initiatives.

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 17/07/2026

Kernels. Git. Dotfiles. If you know what these are, the latest Humble book bundle might be for you. Pay what you want for Linux: All the Things. Your purchase helps support our work to modernize government services. Get yours today: bit.ly/4ygDQy0 #HumbleBundle

Linux: All the Things Book Bundle
Supporting Code for America

Book covers:
Learning Kali Linux
Linux Pocket Guide
Learning Git

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 14/07/2026

Every interaction with government either builds trust or breaks it. That's been true for 250 years. When accessing government services is difficult, it breaks down that trust. We exist to change that. Watch our America 250 episode from @USAToday: youtu.be/e3jmFyd_RXY

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 10/07/2026

When we talk about impact, we’re not just talking about numbers. We’re talking about experiences. Trust is often built one experience at a time. That's real impact. Watch the full episode from the America 250 documentary series: bit.ly/4vmQrwO

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 10/07/2026

New H.R. 1 cost-sharing provisions could make states responsible for a portion of SNAP benefit costs. Depending on a state’s SNAP Payment Error Rate (PER), they might be on the hook for millions, if not billions, of dollars. Here are our recommendations for improving PER: bit.ly/4eqJ0hE

Use Simplified Reporting vs Change Reporting

Change reporting requires clients to report every minor income fluctuation. The frequency and timelines creates administrative challenges for caseworkers, which expose states to error risks.

Simplified reporting only requires clients to report major income changes that cross the eligibility threshold—a win for both caseworkers and clients with variable, low-wage incomes.

Don’t impose asset tests

SNAP rules allow states to choose whether to impose asset tests on SNAP participants. Calculating the exact value of a 15-year-old used car in a fluctuating market, for example, is extremely difficult, and an added burden for caseworkers and families.

When states impose asset tests, they’re introducing a massive liability for errors. States should waive these optional tests to preserve their budgets.

Don’t artificially limit discretionary exemptions

Discretionary exemptions give states a grace period for people who'd otherwise lose SNAP due to new work requirements.

Some legislatures want to prohibit states from using these exemptions. Stripping agencies of this tool will further complicate time limits and translate directly into higher payment errors.

Don’t continuously verify income for Medicaid. Verify when someone is up for renewal.
In integrated systems, automatic Medicaid income checks can create alerts that require SNAP caseworkers to take action—even on minor changes clients aren't required to report.

When SNAP caseworkers must act on every alert, it creates backlogs that can lead to payment errors.

Checking at renewal, instead of continuously, avoids this pileup.

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 08/07/2026

Linux powers much of the infrastructure that keeps digital government services running, which is why we’re excited to announce the latest Humble Bundle Linux: All the Things! Pay what you want for your bundle and support our work. Get your bundle today: bit.ly/4ygDQy0 @humblebundle.com

Linux All the Things Bundle

Books include: Linux Pocket Guide, Learning Kali Linux, Learning Git, Practical Unix System Administration, Version control with Git.

Get a bundle of books for $25

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 30/06/2026

Only 7 states can prove measurable impact in their AI investments. Most are still focused on getting off the ground, not tracking outcomes. Here are a few takeaways from our state-by-state Government AI Landscape Assessment: bit.ly/4oeK4Jz Does anything surprise you?

AI Readiness - 2026 Government AI Landscape Assessment
Most states are still building the foundation
Only 11 states are in advanced stages.
Readiness relies on leadership, capacity, and infrastructure conditions.
States are focusing on guardrails, ethics, transparency, risk mitigation.
Readiness at the state level is outpacing that of individual agencies.

AI Pilots
Experimentation emerges alongside planning
Nearly every state has AI pilots, but only four are in advanced stages.
Usually focused on internal productivity: summarizing, drafting, and improving workflows.
Often decentralized—with individual agencies piloting AI to solve their own unique challenges.

Implementation
Pilots are becoming operational in government
Most states are in early stages, with 11 states operationalizing AI.
These AI systems are typically used for reducing backlogs, processing documents, and detecting fraud.
States with strong data infrastructure are moving the fastest.

IMPACT
Measuring outcomes is the next frontier
Few states have built the systems to track AI's impact over time.
Only seven states can demonstrate measurable impact.
What's next for states? Measuring outcomes, efficiency, service quality, and public value.

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 26/06/2026

Today is the last day to submit your session proposal for #FormFest2026! It’s the perfect place to share how you’ve used forms to improve government. Submit your proposal before 11:59 pm PT today: bit.ly/44au5TU Co-hosted with @beeckcenter.bsky.social

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 22/06/2026

Filing your taxes is no easy task, but the IRS's VITA program completes millions of free tax returns every year. These volunteers are some of the most important people in their communities every tax season. We're proud to partner with them through GetYourRefund: bit.ly/4vlmrSH

Why We Appreciate Our VITA Partners—And Tax Filers Do Too

Through VITA, trained volunteers complete millions of federal and state tax returns every year

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 18/06/2026

Millions, or even billions, of dollars. That's what most states could be on the hook for in new SNAP cost-sharing liabilities under the One Big Beautiful Bill. Here are four ways to avoid policy traps that drive up errors, while also building a more effective safety net: bit.ly/4eqJ0hE

SNAP Policy Choices That Could Cost States Billions
Common policy traps that increase payment error rates and how states can avoid them

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 18/06/2026

Next Friday is the last day to submit your session proposal for #FormFest2026! It’s the perfect place to share how you’ve used forms to improve government. Learn more about the call for proposals and submit yours: formfest.org/call-for-proposals Co-hosted with @beeckcenter.bsky.social

Formfest 2026
Better government, one form at a time
September 16, 2026 - Virtual Event

Calling all form fanatics
Submit your proposal June 8-26

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 17/06/2026

Nearly every state has piloted AI, but no two approach it in the same way. Our 2026 Government AI Landscape Assessment looks at states' AI journeys across readiness, piloting, implementation, and impact. See who's making progress and where challenges remain: bit.ly/4oeK4Jz

Impact
Vermont
ChatVT, an AI chatbot, has managed
thousands of citizen questions about state programs—from health services to the DMV.

Providing 24/7, plain language responses, the
virtual assistant has improved public access
to information and reduced routine inquiries
to call centers.

Vermont backs ChatVT with strong oversight: an advisory council, decision systems inventory, and annual reviews, while public reporting keeps it accountable.

Implementation: Maryland
Deployed a GenAI-powered benefits and eligibility guidance agent to help residents navigate food assistance, Medicaid, and housing support programs. It:
Answers questions about programs
Helps residents identify which programs they qualify for
Guides them through the application

Gives personalized information for household circumstances

Gen AI Pilot: North Carolina
The state's Government Data Analytics Center (GDAC) was already innovating with traditional AI and machine learning pilots — using them to flag fraudulent benefit claims or tax evasion patterns, and predict which counties were at risk of opioid overdose spikes.

Now, the GDAC supports GenAI pilots like document summarization for policy briefs for the legislature’s research staff.

AI Readiness: Georgia

Deployed a GenAI-powered benefits and eligibility guidance agent to help residents navigate food assistance, Medicaid, and housing support programs.

The system answers questions about public benefits programs, helps residents identify which programs they qualify for, guides them through the application, and gives personalized information for household circumstances.

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 16/06/2026

Claude Corps is a fellowship for early-career individuals passionate about extending the benefits of AI to communities across America. We're proud to host a fellow. Learn more: bit.ly/4eE6n8E @anthropic.com @codepathorg.bsky.social @socialfinanceus.bsky.social

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 11/06/2026

#FormFest2026 call for proposals is now open! Help us improve the future of government form design and service delivery by sharing your innovative ideas and best practices. Submit your proposals for a virtual session by June 26. formfest.org Co-hosted with @beeckcenter.bsky.social

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 08/06/2026

“The future we build is …” what? We asked attendees at Code for America Summit to share their vision. We were blown away by the responses! What do you think the future we build will look like? Share in the comments.

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 02/06/2026

Calling all form fanatics! Code for America and the Beeck Center for Social Impact + Innovation at Georgetown University are back this year with #FormFest2026. Are you interested in leading a session? Our call for proposals opens next week from June 8-26. bit.ly/45J9l6d

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 19/05/2026

The Head First by O’Reilly Humble Bundle is still live through May 27! Build new technical skills while supporting Code for America’s work to improve government services. www.humblebundle.com/books/head-fir…

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 15/05/2026

We’re proud to be featured in the latest Humble Bundle: Head First by O’Reilly! Explore books on Python, and more, all while supporting Code for America’s work. 📚 www.humblebundle.com/books/head-fir…

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 08/05/2026

Code for America is proud to announce that we’re partnering with Anthropic to improve public benefits administration through the responsible use of AI. Together, we’re creating Claude-based tools to help government caseworkers administer public benefits. Learn more: bit.ly/3R0etz8

bit.ly

Code for America and Anthropic Partner to Create AI Tools for Caseworkers — Code for America

New Claude integrations will enable caseworkers to process cases efficiently and accurately while navigating a complex, rapidly changing benefits landscape

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 07/05/2026

The wait is over—Summit 2026 has arrived! You can feel the excitement in the air as our #civictech community comes together for two days of sharing, learning, and growing. #CfASummit

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 04/05/2026

Code for America’s 2026 Government AI Landscape Assessment looks at state readiness, implementation, and real-world impact, showing how states are progressing from early exploration to measurable outcomes. See how your state compares: bit.ly/4oeK4Jz

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 01/05/2026

Our April newsletter is live. 📬 We’re sharing what’s working, what we’re learning, and what’s next for building government services that actually work for people. Take a look: codeforamerica.org/newsletter #CivicTech #GovTech

codeforamerica.org

Join our list — Code for America

Learn about events, news, and resources from Code for America

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 29/04/2026

Registration for Code for America Summit closes today! Whether you’ve got a passion for procurement, or a fervor for federal tech policy, Summit is the place. You’ll find your people here. Join us in Chicago next week, May 7-8. Get your tickets today! summit.codeforamerica.org/tickets

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 27/04/2026

Just two days left to secure your spot at Code for America Summit! Join us in Chicago on May 7-8 as we explore the future we build. Tickets are going fast! Secure your spot today. summit.codeforamerica.org/tickets

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 17/04/2026

Last year, Code for America worked in 27 different states. States faced incredible challenges, a shifting policy landscape, and the longest shutdown in history. Still, we managed to meet the moment and support states. Check out our 2025 Impact Report bit.ly/4dKwUkJ

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 06/04/2026

Back by popular demand—Demo Lab returns to #CfASummit this year! Demo lab is an interactive, experiential opportunity for innovators, problem-solvers, and creative thinkers to dig deep on the latest products, processes, and more! Get your tickets now! summit.codeforamerica.org

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 03/04/2026

Just in time pricing closes today! After today, tickets return to full price. The future we build is stronger when we innovate today. Join us in Chicago on May 7-8! Register here: bit.ly/46CREqe

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 01/04/2026

Code for America was built for moments like these. No single actor can meet this challenge alone. When government, nonprofits, philanthropy, and the private sector come together, we prove what’s possible. Check out our full 2025 Impact Report here. codeforamerica.org/impact/2025

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Code for America @codeforamerica.org · 27/03/2026

Don’t miss your chance to snag Summit tickets at the reduced price of $699. This price is available through Friday, April 3 at 11:59 p.m. PT or until tickets run out. Hurry and get your ticket now! summit.codeforamerica.org/tickets

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