Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has financed the largest basic income study ever conducted in the United States through his nonprofit organization, OpenResearch. This initiative involved researchers providing unconditional cash payments to individuals living below the poverty line for a duration of three years.
The study included approximately 3,000 participants aged 21 to 40 from Texas and Illinois, all earning less than $30,000 annually. One-third of these participants received $1,000 monthly, known as recipients, while the remaining participants, serving as the control group, received just $50.
Findings from the research indicated that those receiving the larger payments had greater flexibility to pursue job opportunities that suited their interests and needs. The authors of the study noted, “Cash can increase people’s agency to make employment decisions that align with their individual circumstances, goals, and values. Recipients were more likely to be searching for a job, but they were more selective.”
One participant expressed gratitude for the cash transfer, stating, “Because of the [cash transfer] and being able to build up my savings, I’m in a position for once to be picky. I don’t have to take a crappy job just because I need income right now. I have the opportunity to hold out and try and find the right fit.”
Another recipient shared their experience of taking a lower-paying entry-level job in their desired field, which ultimately led them to a six-figure salary within two years. “If I didn’t have the cash transfers, there is no way I could have taken that pay cut,” they commented.
The study showed no significant differences in employment rates between those receiving the larger payments and the control group. Recipients primarily utilized the funds to cover basic necessities, including food, housing, and transportation. Payments also assisted in addressing health needs, such as dental braces and treatment for alcoholism. Although the payments initially alleviated stress, many health benefits diminished after two years.
Sam Altman advocates for universal basic income, particularly as artificial intelligence reshapes the job market and potentially reduces employment opportunities.
Correction: An earlier version of this article incorrectly identified the organization conducting the study; it was Sam Altman’s nonprofit OpenResearch, not OpenAI.