Benefits.gov goes mobile

WASHINGTON – Benefits.gov has launched a mobile compatible version of its website, the U.S. Department of Labor announced today. Benefits.gov, the official benefits website of the U.S. government, has enhanced its site for visitors using mobile devices, such as smartphones and tablets. The changes make it easier for the public to access government benefit and assistance program information anytime, anywhere.

Mobile access to Benefits.gov increased by more than 200 percent in the last year, underscoring the importance of enhancing the website to improve user experiences. A new "Responsive Design" enables the site to identify the resolution of the user's viewing screen and dynamically alter the format to accommodate the device. It ensures that a quality user experience is not dependent on the type of device or operating system being used – computer, smartphone or tablet.

"Benefits.gov is an outstanding example of how citizens can learn about the government assistance that is available to them. Opening up these resources to mobile devices moves Benefits.gov in the right direction, creating an easier experience for the public to access government benefit and eligibility information," said Al Sloane, Benefits.gov program manager.

One of the website's key features is the "Benefit Finder," a search tool that anonymously asks users questions to determine which government programs they may be eligible to receive. Visitors can also search for more information about available programs by browsing the site by state, category or federal agency. The website is available in English and Spanish.

Benefits.gov is the product of a collaborative partnership of 17 federal agencies, and the Labor Department is the managing partner. Visitors can keep up with the latest benefit-related information by subscribing to page updates directly from the site, subscribing to the website's quarterly eNewsletter, Benefits.gov Compass, as well as by following Benefits.gov on Twitter at http://www.twitter.com/benefitsGOV, Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/benefitsGOV, and YouTube at www.youtube.com/BenefitsGOV.