Number: RS21126
Title: Tax Cuts and Economic Stimulus: How Effective Are the Alternatives?
Authors: Jane G. Gravelle, Senior Specialist in Economic Policy 
Abstract: Several types of tax cuts have been debated for fiscal stimulus bills in recent years, and a fiscal stimulus was adopted in February, 2008 (P.L. 110-185). President-Elect Obama has suggested a large fiscal stimulus that includes a middle class tax cut. A tax cut is more effective the greater the fraction of it that is spent. Empirical evidence suggests individual tax cuts will be more likely to be spent if they go to lower income individuals, making the tax rebate for lower income individuals likely more effective than several other tax cuts. There is some evidence that tax cuts received in a lump sum will have a smaller stimulative effect than those reflected in paychecks, but this evidence is uncertain. While temporary individual tax cuts likely have smaller effects than permanent ones, temporary cuts contingent on spending (such as temporary investment subsidies or a sales tax holiday) are likely more effective than permanent cuts. (Sales tax holidays may, however, be very difficult to implement in a timely fashion). The effect of business tax cuts is uncertain, but likely small for tax cuts whose main effects are through cash flow.
Pages: 6
Date: December 5, 2008