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Static and Dynamic Mirrleesian Taxation with Non-separable Preferences: A Unified Approach

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  • Hellwig, Christian

Abstract

I analyze dynamic Mirrlees taxation with preferences that are non-separable between consumption, leisure and type, which determines both ability and consumption needs. I show how to account for non-separable preferences through a simple change in probability measures. I generalize the existing Inverse Euler Equation and optimal static labor tax formulae and provide a unified intuition based on a set of perturbations around the optimal allocations that preserve expected utility and incentive compatibility. Non-separability in preferences gives rise to a new tradeoff between current and future redistribution that is internalized by the planner's solution but not by private savings decisions. This leads to a novel rationale to subsidize (tax) savings and make labor taxes more (less) persistent, when more productive agents also have higher (lower) consumption needs.

Suggested Citation

  • Hellwig, Christian, 2021. "Static and Dynamic Mirrleesian Taxation with Non-separable Preferences: A Unified Approach," CEPR Discussion Papers 16254, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    • Handle: RePEc:cpr:ceprdp:16254
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    2. Hellwig, Christian & Werquin, Nicolas, 2022. "A Fair Day's Pay for a Fair Day's Work: Optimal Tax Design as Redistributional Arbitrage," CEPR Discussion Papers 16863, C.E.P.R. Discussion Papers.
    3. Brendon, C., 2022. "Optimal Nonlinear Savings Taxation," Cambridge Working Papers in Economics 2221, Faculty of Economics, University of Cambridge.
    4. Hellwig, Christian & Werquin, Nicolas, 2022. "Using Consumption Data to Derive Optimal Income and Capital Tax Rates," TSE Working Papers 22-1284, Toulouse School of Economics (TSE), revised Jan 2026.
    5. Alexander W. Bloedel & R. Vijay Krishna & Oksana Leukhina, 2025. "Insurance and Inequality With Persistent Private Information," Econometrica, Econometric Society, vol. 93(3), pages 821-857, May.
    6. Brendon, C., 2022. "Optimal Nonlinear Savings Taxation," Janeway Institute Working Papers 2210, Faculty of Economics, University of Cambridge.
    7. Maideu-Morera, Gerard, 2024. "Firm Size and Compensation Dynamics with Risk Aversion and Persistent Private Information," TSE Working Papers 24-1535, Toulouse School of Economics (TSE).

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