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Efficient redistribution

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  • Boar, Corina
  • Midrigan, Virgiliu

Abstract

What is the optimal shape of non-linear income and wealth taxes? We answer this question using a dynamic general equilibrium model with uninsurable idiosyncratic risk. Our analysis reproduces the distribution of income and wealth in the United States and takes into account the long-lived transition dynamics after policy reforms. We find that a uniform flat tax on capital and labor income combined with a lump-sum transfer is nearly optimal. The incremental welfare gains from steeper marginal income and wealth taxes are small, especially when the planner has a strong preference for redistribution, due to strong behavioral and general equilibrium effects.

Suggested Citation

  • Boar, Corina & Midrigan, Virgiliu, 2022. "Efficient redistribution," Journal of Monetary Economics, Elsevier, vol. 131(C), pages 78-91.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:moneco:v:131:y:2022:i:c:p:78-91
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jmoneco.2022.07.003
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    Cited by:

    1. Nezih Guner & Martin Lopez-Daneri & Gustavo Ventura, 2023. "The Looming Fiscal Reckoning: Tax Distortions, Top Earners, and Revenues," Review of Economic Dynamics, Elsevier for the Society for Economic Dynamics, vol. 50, pages 146-170, October.
    2. Tao, Zhang & Huang, Xiao Yue & Dang, Yi Jing & Qiao, Sen, 2022. "The impact of factor market distortions on profit sustainable growth of Chinese renewable energy enterprises: The moderating effect of environmental regulation," Renewable Energy, Elsevier, vol. 200(C), pages 1068-1080.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Inequality; Redistribution; Tax policy;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E2 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Consumption, Saving, Production, Employment, and Investment
    • E6 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook
    • H2 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue

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