Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has financed the most extensive basic income study in the United States to date through his nonprofit organization, OpenResearch. The initiative involved 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 between 21 and 40 from Texas and Illinois, all earning less than $30,000 annually. One-third of the participants received $1,000 per month, while the control group was given $50.
Results indicated that those receiving the larger payments had greater flexibility when seeking employment that aligned with their preferences. 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 highlighted the positive impact of the cash transfers on their job choices, 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 a desired field, which eventually led to a six-figure salary within two years. They remarked, “If I didn’t have the cash transfers, there is no way I could have taken that pay cut.”
The study also revealed that there were no significant differences in employment levels between those receiving the larger payments and the control group. However, recipients increased their spending on basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation. The financial support also helped recipients address health needs, including orthodontic and addiction treatments. While the initial payments alleviated stress, many of the health benefits diminished after a two-year period.
Sam Altman has advocated for universal basic income, especially as artificial intelligence transforms the labor market and displaces certain jobs.
Correction: An earlier version of this article inaccurately identified the institution behind the study. It was conducted by Sam Altman’s nonprofit, OpenResearch, not OpenAI.