THE REDISTRIBUTIVE IMPACT OF ALTERNATIVE INCOME MAINTENANCE SCHEMES: A MICROSIMULATION STUDY USING SWISS DATA |
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Authors: | Ramses H.,Abul Naga ,Christophe,Kolodziejczyk Tobias,Mü ller |
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Affiliation: | Department of Economics and International Development, University of Bath; AKF Danish Institute of Governmental Research, Copenhagen; Department of Econometrics, University of Geneva |
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Abstract: | Taking a benchmark scenario, the current situation in Switzerland, and using a microsimulation technique, we compare the effectiveness of various income maintenance schemes for reducing inequality and poverty. A full negative income tax allowance designed to eliminate poverty is shown to reduce income inequality most drastically. An integrated federal linear tax rate of 62 percent is required to make it viable. Aggregate work hours are reduced by approximately 10 percent and average disposable income falls by 9.3 percent under such circumstances. A participation income restricted to adults in employment and covering 50 percent of subsistence costs is however shown to result in an unambiguous social welfare improvement over the current situation in Switzerland. |
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