What you call ‘market distortions’ are at times the only other means of getting additional money into the hands of low income earners.
If someone’s already paying $0 in income tax, either because they are on disability payments, a student, or caring after a loved one - then providing them with supplemental rental and nutritional payments are sometimes the only thing standing between them becoming unhoused and going hungry.
Let’s say they live with a family member for free or they have a small allotment. Maybe they don’t need rental help or food help. By giving them that they might not get what they really need. They might need gas money, or small starter money for a business or an eduction certificate.
Money still allows them to do what they want but also more. That’s why cash is becoming more popular. It has more value for the same cost to government
What you call ‘market distortions’ are at times the only other means of getting additional money into the hands of low income earners.
If someone’s already paying $0 in income tax, either because they are on disability payments, a student, or caring after a loved one - then providing them with supplemental rental and nutritional payments are sometimes the only thing standing between them becoming unhoused and going hungry.
Not if you just give them money.
They can still buy food or rent with that money.
Let’s say they live with a family member for free or they have a small allotment. Maybe they don’t need rental help or food help. By giving them that they might not get what they really need. They might need gas money, or small starter money for a business or an eduction certificate.
Money still allows them to do what they want but also more. That’s why cash is becoming more popular. It has more value for the same cost to government