Optimal taxation in the extensive model

A-Tier
Journal: Journal of Economic Theory
Year: 2011
Volume: 146
Issue: 2
Pages: 425-453

Authors (2)

Score contribution per author:

2.011 = (α=2.01 / 2 authors) × 2.0x A-tier

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

Abstract

We study optimal taxation under extensive preferences: the agents[modifier letter apostrophe] utilities are constant for positive actions up to a maximal productivity level. Utilities may be discontinuous at the origin, reflecting fixed costs of participation. Allowing for general distributions of work opportunity costs and productivity and for income effects, we characterize optimal, incentive-compatible tax schedules. We then give sufficient conditions for society to desire redistribution. When these conditions hold, upward distortions of the financial incentives to work can only occur for low-skilled workers. Such upwards distortions are indeed always present when the fixed participation costs are pecuniary.

Technical Details

RePEc Handle
repec:eee:jetheo:v:146:y:2011:i:2:p:425-453
Journal Field
Theory
Author Count
2
Added to Database
2026-01-25