Researchers at the Brown School’s Center for Social Development and its Evaluation Center carried out an independent, mixed-methods evaluation of the St. Louis Guaranteed Basic Income pilot. The pilot began in late 2023 and provided $500 per month for 18 months to more than 500 low-income families with school-age children.
The team used surveys, interviews, spending data and anonymized monthly credit records to measure effects. Families reported fewer missed rent and utility payments, reduced food insecurity, and greater ability to cover essential needs and unexpected expenses. Parents also said payments helped pay for education, extracurriculars and health needs.
Administrative credit data showed participants’ credit scores rose by an average of 12 points compared with similar St. Louis residents who did not receive payments. A temporary, lawsuit-driven pause in payments in 2024 coincided with short-term declines in credit health. The researchers recommended reducing administrative barriers, ensuring consistent payments, and offering optional financial services. The pilot has ended and there are no current plans to extend it.
Difficult words
- pilot — small test program to try a policy
- mixed-methods — research using both numbers and personal data
- evaluation — study that checks how well something works
- anonymize — information changed so people cannot be namedanonymized
- food insecurity — not having reliable access to enough food
- credit score — number that shows a person's financial historycredit scores
- barrier — official or practical obstacle that blocks progressbarriers
- coincide — to happen at the same timecoincided
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you think regular cash payments would help families in your community? Why or why not?
- What problems could appear when a payment program pauses for a short time?
- How might optional financial services help participants use the payments? Give examples.
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