Sam Altman, the CEO of OpenAI, has funded 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 over a three-year period.
The study engaged approximately 3,000 participants aged 21 to 40 from Texas and Illinois, all of whom had annual incomes of less than $30,000. One-third of these participants received $1,000 per month, while the rest, forming the control group, were allotted $50 monthly.
Findings from the study indicated that those receiving the larger monthly payments had greater flexibility in job searching, allowing them to pursue roles that better suited their preferences. The authors of the study noted that cash assistance enhances individuals’ ability to make employment decisions that align with their values and circumstances, with recipients being more selective about job opportunities.
One participant reflected, “Because of the cash transfer and being able to build up my savings, I’m in a position for once to be picky,” highlighting that the financial support provided the opportunity to seek a better job fit rather than taking any available position out of necessity. Another recipient shared that they accepted a lower-paying entry-level job in their desired field, ultimately achieving a six-figure salary within two years, a move they credit to the cash transfers.
The study noted no significant difference in employment rates between the cash recipients and the control group. However, recipients reported increased spending on essential needs such as food, housing, and transportation. The payments also aided in covering health-related expenses like braces and treatment for alcoholism. Although the cash assistance appeared to alleviate stress initially, many of the associated health benefits diminished after two years.
Sam Altman has been an advocate for universal basic income, particularly as the rise of artificial intelligence continues to transform the labor market and impact job availability.
An earlier version of this article incorrectly identified the organization overseeing the study; it was OpenResearch, not OpenAI.