How does it compare with other welfare programs?
I really don't know. But, if you apply for food stamps, for example, I'd bet that you have to let the government come into your kitchen to check your cupboards.
I'm sure I don't have to tell you about the extent to which the current income tax code opens every taxpayer, and those who the IRS thinks should be taxpayers, to invasion of almost every aspect of their businesses and personal life. Applying for the prebate (for taxpayers) and remitting the tax due (for merchants) is nothing like the burden of the current tax code.