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Should Robots Be Taxed?

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  • Rebelo, Sérgio
  • Teles, Pedro
  • Guerreiro, Joao

Abstract

We use a model of automation to show that with the current U.S. tax system, a fall in automation costs could lead to a massive rise in income inequality. This inequality can be reduced by raising marginal income tax rates and taxing robots. But this solution involves a substantial efficiency loss for the reduced level of inequality. A Mirrleesian optimal income tax can reduce inequality at a smaller efficiency cost, but is difficult to implement. An alternative approach is to amend the current tax system to include a lump-sum rebate. In our model, with the rebate in place, it is optimal to tax robots only when there is partial automation.

Suggested Citation

  • Rebelo, Sérgio & Teles, Pedro & Guerreiro, Joao, 2017. "Should Robots Be Taxed?," CEPR Discussion Papers 12238, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:12238
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Inequality; Optimal taxation; Automation; robots;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • H21 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Efficiency; Optimal Taxation
    • O33 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Innovation; Research and Development; Technological Change; Intellectual Property Rights - - - Technological Change: Choices and Consequences; Diffusion Processes

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