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Intergenerational Transfers and Accumulation of Wealth

Author

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  • Gale, W.G.
  • Scholz, K.

Abstract

This paper uses household data to provide direct estimates of intergenerational transfers as a source of wealth. The authors distinguish between intended transfers (for example, gifts to other households) and possibly unintended transfers (bequests) and estimate that intended transfers account for at least 20 percent of net worth. Thus, a significant portion of the U.S. wealth cannot be explained by the life-cycle model, even when the model is augmented to allow for bequests. Estimated bequests can account for an additional 31 percent of net worth. The authors also show that transfers among living people are about half as large as bequests.
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Suggested Citation

  • Gale, W.G. & Scholz, K., 1993. "Intergenerational Transfers and Accumulation of Wealth," Working papers 9315, Wisconsin Madison - Social Systems.
    • Handle: RePEc:att:wimass:9315
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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution

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