E- Payment System in Social Assistance Program: A Systematic Literature Review

Abstract

The adoption of e-payment systems in social assistance programs has grown globally, with more than 52 countries implementing electronic transfers in their welfare programs. However, there is still a research gap regarding the critical success factors, effective mechanisms, and long-term impacts of e-payment implementation in the context of social assistance, especially in developing countries. To analyze the implementation of e-payment systems in social assistance programs through a systematic review of critical success factors, effective mechanisms, strategic policy recommendations, and results and impacts to optimize the distribution of social assistance. A Systematic Literature Review was conducted by searching for articles in the Scopus and Web of Science databases using search strings organized by PICO components. Of the 4,235 articles identified, screening was conducted based on Inclusion (English language articles, 2014-2024) and exclusion criteria. Quality of the articles was determined by the MMAT checklist, and data extraction was conducted with Nvivo 14 for theme analysis.

Result: Seven critical success factor categories were determined from the 26 articles that were eligible, which include technological infrastructure, regulation, resource, operations, security, socio-cultural, and evaluations sustainability. Eight measurable impact categories were determined, which include operational efficiency, improved governance, improved financial inclusion, and social empowerment. The implementation of electronic systems for paying social benefits requires a holistic approach combining technical, social, and institutional factors. Effective implementation depends on the complex interaction between system elements, and for this reason, there must be enough capacity and an enabling and supportive environment.