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Search frictions, real wage rigidities and theoptimal design of unemployment insurance: a study in a DSGE framework

Author

Listed:
  • Julien Albertini

    (Centre d’Études des politiques Économiques de l’Université d’Evry (EPEE))

  • Xavier Fairise

    (Centre d’Études des politiques Économiques de l’Université d’Evry (EPEE))

Abstract

In this paper, we feature the optimal unemployment benefits financing scheme when the economy is subject to labor market failures characterized by search frictions and wages rigidity. We show how policy instruments should interact with labor market imperfections. The US unemployment insurance financing is such that firms are taxes in proportion of their layoffs. The question of the optimal tax schedule naturally arises. Using the DSGE methodology, we investigate the optimal design of the unemployment benefits financing scheme. The welfare gains and the stabilizing effects of this policy are evaluated. If unemployment benefits and layoff taxes are chosen in an appropriate way, welfare and labor market performances can be improved. Search externalities and wage rigidities cause sizeable welfare losses and influence the optimal design of the financing scheme. Without wage rigidities the efficient layoff tax corresponds to the expected fiscal cost of an unemployed worker. Conversely, when wages are rigid, the cost firms should support is much higher.

Suggested Citation

  • Julien Albertini & Xavier Fairise, 2009. "Search frictions, real wage rigidities and theoptimal design of unemployment insurance: a study in a DSGE framework," Documents de recherche 09-03, Centre d'Études des Politiques Économiques (EPEE), Université d'Evry Val d'Essonne.
    • Handle: RePEc:eve:wpaper:09-03
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    DSGE models; search and matching friction; layoff tax; wage rigidities;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • E61 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Policy Objectives; Policy Designs and Consistency; Policy Coordination
    • E65 - Macroeconomics and Monetary Economics - - Macroeconomic Policy, Macroeconomic Aspects of Public Finance, and General Outlook - - - Studies of Particular Policy Episodes
    • J63 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Turnover; Vacancies; Layoffs
    • J65 - Labor and Demographic Economics - - Mobility, Unemployment, Vacancies, and Immigrant Workers - - - Unemployment Insurance; Severance Pay; Plant Closings

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