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Optimal Pensions in Aging Economies

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  • Burkhard Heer

Abstract

Ýmrohoroðlu, Ýmrohoroðlu and Joines [1995, A life-cycle analysis of Social Security, Economic Theory, vol. 6, 83-114] show that the optimal replacement ratio of the payas-you-go public pension system in the US economy amounts to 30%. We extend their analysis to a model that 1) replicates the empirical wage heterogeneity, 2) endogenizes the individual’s labor supply decision and 3) accounts for contributions-defined pensions of the US social security system. With these more realistic modifications, the optimal replacement ratio is found to amount to approximately 5% and to be insensitive with regard to the aging of the US population; however, lower productivity growth would result in higher optimal pension payments. In addition, the optimal pension scheme is found to be more progressive than the present US pension system.

Suggested Citation

  • Burkhard Heer, 2015. "Optimal Pensions in Aging Economies," CESifo Working Paper Series 5192, CESifo.
    • Handle: RePEc:ces:ceswps:_5192
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    3. Makarski, Krzysztof & Tyrowicz, Joanna & Komada, Oliwia, 2026. "Progressing Towards Efficiency: The Role for Labor Tax Progression in Reforming Social," IZA Discussion Papers 18810, IZA Network @ LISER.
    4. Makarski, Krzysztof & Tyrowicz, Joanna & Komada, Oliwia, 2024. "Capital income taxation and reforming social security in an OLG economy," Journal of Economic Dynamics and Control, Elsevier, vol. 165(C).

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    Keywords

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    JEL classification:

    • C68 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Mathematical Methods; Programming Models; Mathematical and Simulation Modeling - - - Computable General Equilibrium Models
    • D31 - Microeconomics - - Distribution - - - Personal Income and Wealth Distribution
    • D91 - Microeconomics - - Micro-Based Behavioral Economics - - - Role and Effects of Psychological, Emotional, Social, and Cognitive Factors on Decision Making
    • H55 - Public Economics - - National Government Expenditures and Related Policies - - - Social Security and Public Pensions
    • J11 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demographic Economics - - - Demographic Trends, Macroeconomic Effects, and Forecasts
    • J26 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Demand and Supply of Labor - - - Retirement; Retirement Policies

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