A Californian city gave people $500 a month - no strings attached. Here's what happened

Mar 15, 2021

Customers push shopping trolleys on an escalator

Most recipients spent the money on essentials. Image: REUTERS/Charles Platiau

Sean Fleming

Senior Writer, Formative Content

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a chart showing the qualifications needed to apply for the programme

This is how people can apply for the programme. Image: SEED

A chart showing what recipients spent their money on

articipants spent the majority of the $500 monthly UBI amount on essentials. Image: SEED

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A Californian city gave people $500 a month - no strings attached. Here's what happened

Sean Fleming

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Why Universal Basic Income might not be the answer

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