Authors
Lauren E Jones, Katherine Michelmore
Publication date
2018/6
Journal
Journal of Policy Analysis and Management
Volume
37
Issue
3
Pages
521-545
Description
Using a simulated instrument strategy, we analyze how expansions to the federal and state Earned Income Tax Credits (EITC) affected household finances over the past two decades. Using data from the Survey of Income and Program Participation wealth topical modules, we also test whether responses differ over time, as well as whether there are different responses to the federal and state expansions, and how responses vary by educational attainment. A $1,000 policy‐induced increase in the average household EITC leads to a 3 percentage point increase in the likelihood of holding money in a savings or checking account, and approximately $700 more held in savings balances. These results are coupled with large increases in pre‐tax family earnings. We also find some evidence of decreases in unsecured debt holdings. We interpret these results as further evidence that the EITC increases the financial …
Total citations
201820192020202120222023202439107161310
Scholar articles
LE Jones, K Michelmore - Journal of Policy Analysis and Management, 2018