CONSENSUS STATEMENT ON BASIC INCOME GUARANTEE [Download PDF]

(February 2023)

This statement represents the wide consensus of the basic income movement in Canada, endorsed by Basic Income Canada Network/Réseau canadien pour le revenu garanti, Coalition Canada basic income - revenu de base, and UBI Works at the national level, and supported by many regional and local basic income groups, and other allies, regarding the key characteristics of a desirable basic income guarantee. It does not provide a detailed design but sets out the parameters to which any basic income guarantee must adhere in order to be acceptable.

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Core Elements

• The basic income guarantee will be available for citizens and residents of Canada, aged 18 to 64 years.

• Benefits will be sufficient to cover basic needs and ensure that no one falls into poverty.

• Benefit amounts will be determined based on taxable income with provisions to rapidly accommodate significant changes in income and family composition.

• Benefits will be reduced gradually as other taxable income increases.

• Benefits will be paid on a regular schedule (e.g., bi-weekly, or monthly).

• Benefits will be paid to individuals.

• No behavioural conditions will be applied (e.g. work requirements, education, life skills training, etc.).

• Application and registration processes will be accessible and accommodate the range of capabilities and circumstances among citizens and residents.

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Design

• The basic income guarantee will be designed based on collaboration among federal and provincial and territorial governments, and Indigenous peoples – First Nations, Metis, and Inuit.

• The basic income will be guaranteed by the federal government based on legislation which establishes it as a right.

• Municipal governments are acknowledged as important advocates for a basic income.

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Other Programs

• The basic income guarantee should be an essential component of broad publicly funded universal supports and services.

• The basic income guarantee will not replace any publicly delivered social, health or educational services.

• The basic income guarantee will not restrict access to any current or future benefits meant to meet special, exceptional, or other distinct needs and goals beyond basic needs.

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Financing

Revenues required for a basic income model will be developed based on two principles:

• Tax fairness.

• Contribution to lowering income and wealth inequality.

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