Abstract

In this article, I take for granted agreement on the merits of an unconditional basic income, and I consider the form its distribution might take. I explore the equity, efficiency, and incentive effects of several basic income models in order to provide a plausible example of what a basic income in the US might look like. I present four basic income models, discuss their advantages and disadvantages, and consider whether any one of these models is conclusively superior to the others in terms of the trade-offs involved. I conclude with a tentative proposal for a level and distribution for introducing an unconditional basic income in the US.

Recommended Citation

Zelleke, Almaz (2007) "Targeting Benefit Levels to Individuals or Families?," Basic Income Studies: Vol. 2 : Iss. 1, Article 7.
Available at: http://www.bepress.com/bis/vol2/iss1/art7