International Finance Discussion Papers (IFDP)
August 2022
On the optimal design of transfers and income-tax progressivity
Axelle Ferriere, Philipp Grübener, Gaston Navarro, and Oliko Vardishvili
Abstract:
We study the optimal design of means-tested transfers and progressive income taxes. In a simple analytical model, we demonstrate an optimally negative relation between transfers and income-tax progressivity due to efficiency and redistribution concerns. In a rich dynamic model, we quantify the optimal plan with flexible tax-and-transfer functions. Transfers should be larger than currently in the U.S. and financed with moderate income-tax progressivity. Transfers are key to implement higher progressivity in average than in marginal tax-and-transfer rates, achieving redistribution while preserving efficiency. Quantitatively, the left tail of the income distribution determines optimal transfers, whereas the right tail determines income-tax progressivity.
Keywords: Heterogeneous Agents, Fiscal Policy, Optimal Taxation, Redistribution
DOI: https://doi.org/10.17016/IFDP.2022.1350
PDF: Full Paper
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