Redistributive Taxation in the Roy Model

S-Tier
Journal: Quarterly Journal of Economics
Year: 2013
Volume: 128
Issue: 2
Pages: 623-668

Score contribution per author:

4.022 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 4.0x S-tier

α: calibrated so average coauthorship-adjusted count equals average raw count

Abstract

We consider optimal redistribution in a model where individuals can self-select into one of several possible sectors based on heterogeneity in a multidimensional skill vector. We first show that when the government does not observe the sectoral choice or underlying skills of its citizens, the constrained Pareto frontier can be implemented with a single nonlinear income tax. We then characterize this optimal tax schedule. If sectoral inputs are complements, a many-sector model with self-selection leads to optimal income taxes that are less progressive than the corresponding taxes in a standard single-sector model under natural conditions. However, they are more progressive than in canonical multisector economies with discrete types and without occupational choice or overlapping sectoral wage distributions. JEL Codes: H2, D5, D8, E2, E6, J3, J6. Copyright 2013, Oxford University Press.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:oup:qjecon:v:128:y:2013:i:2:p:623-668
Journal Field
General
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-29