Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, has financed the largest basic income study in the United States to date through his nonprofit organization, OpenResearch. This initiative aimed to provide unconditional cash payments to individuals living below the poverty line for three years.
The study involved approximately 3,000 participants aged 21 to 40 from Texas and Illinois, all of whom earned less than $30,000 annually. One-third of the participants received $1,000 per month, while the remaining participants, in a control group, received only $50.
Results indicated that those receiving the larger payments had greater flexibility in their job searches. The authors of the study noted that the cash assistance enhanced individuals’ ability to make employment choices that were more aligned with their personal circumstances and goals. Recipients were found to be more proactive in their job search while also being more selective in choosing positions.
One participant remarked that the cash transfer allowed them to save money, enabling them to be more particular in their job preference. They expressed that they no longer felt compelled to accept any job merely for immediate income, giving them the chance to find a more suitable position.
Another recipient shared how they could accept a lower-paying entry-level job in their desired field, which ultimately led to a six-figure salary within two years. They credited the cash transfers for making it possible to take that pay cut.
Overall, the study revealed no significant differences in employment rates between those receiving the larger payments and the control group. Recipients primarily used the funds to address basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation. Additionally, the payments enabled recipients to cover health-related expenses like braces and treatment for alcoholism. While initial stress levels decreased with the cash assistance, many of the health benefits appeared to diminish after two years.
Sam Altman has advocated for universal basic income as automation and artificial intelligence continue to transform the job market.
Correction: A previous version of this article incorrectly identified the organization conducting the research. It was Sam Altman’s nonprofit OpenResearch, not OpenAI.