UBI Trials Show Funds Used for Essentials, Not Vices; May Provide Financial Cushion for Job Seekers

Interest in universal basic income (UBI) has grown due to the pandemic, advocates like Elon Musk, and economic hardship Many wonder how people would spend the money.

Early UBI trials show most money is spent on essentials like food, housing, transportation rather than vices.

UBI is meant to cover basic needs and may provide a financial cushion so people can be more selective about jobs.

Recipients in one program spent most on retail, food, housing, transportation, and savings/investing.

Experts say concerns about misusing UBI funds are overblown since low-income groups don't abuse vices more than higher income ones.