Direct, unconditional cash transfers and guaranteed income programs  are one of the best means of addressing financial insecurity. Guaranteed income been used to address a range of issues including mental health, physical health, children’s school achievement, and employment. Unlike in-kind assistance (e.g., food, clothing, housing) guaranteed income’s flexibility allows people to handle their most pressing needs as needs arise.

What is guaranteed income?

Guaranteed income, sometimes called guaranteed basic income or basic income, is a cash payment provided on a regular basis to members of a community with no strings attached and no work requirements. It is intended to create an income floor below which no one can fall.

Guaranteed income focuses on specific individuals within a community, ensuring that those with the greatest need are prioritized for assistance.

What are outcomes from guaranteed income programs?

• Reduced income volatility
• Increased full-time employment
• Improved health and well-being
• Reduced depression and anxiety
• Diminished feelings of financial scarcity and new opportunities for self-determination, choice, goal-setting and risk-taking.

Read the full article about guaranteed income at The Center for High Impact Philanthropy.