Time-saving Goods, Time Inequalities, and Optimal Taxation

Cristian Sepulveda ()

International Center for Public Policy Working Paper Series, at AYSPS, GSU from International Center for Public Policy, Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, Georgia State University

Abstract: Time-saving goods are defined as market goods that reduce home labor requirements (e.g. restaurants; washing machines). Assuming that time savings are costly, this paper shows that lower-income individuals can purchase fewer time savings and enjoy less leisure time. Commodity tax rates affecting low-income individuals should depend more on time savings, and less on the classic Corlett and Hague rule. The related literature suggests to impose lower tax rates on goods that require less home labor. This paper shows that goods that offer greater time savings with respect to their more affordable substitutes should also receive favorable tax treatment.

Pages: 31 pages
Date: 2019-03
New Economics Papers: this item is included in nep-pbe and nep-pub
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Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:ays:ispwps:paper1902

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