Imagine how it would be if $1,200 comes into your account every month without doing any work? It would seem like a dream, right? But in 2025, this dream is becoming a reality for many people in America. Many cities and states have started pilot schemes of Universal Basic Income (UBI), in which a fixed amount is being given to a select few people every month – that too without any conditions.
In this article, we will tell you in detail what UBI is, who is eligible for it, in which cities this scheme is running, how to apply, and what changes are coming in people’s lives due to this.
What is Universal Basic Income (UBI)?
UBI is a scheme in which the government or an institution gives a fixed amount to every citizen every month, whether he is working or not, poor or rich. Its purpose is to fulfill the basic needs of every person such as food, shelter and treatment, so that no one remains hungry or struggles for basic needs.
This idea has been discussed for decades, but it actually gained popularity in the 2020 elections from Andrew Yang’s campaign, who proposed to give $1,000 every month to all Americans.
What is happening in 2025?
Although UBI has not been implemented in the whole of America yet, many states and cities have started pilot programs in 2025. That is, some groups are being given $500 to $1,200 every month on a small scale, so that it can be seen what effect such a scheme has on the society.
With the data received from these schemes, governments are trying to understand whether giving money directly really improves the condition of the people or not.
How much money is being received?
- Some pilot programs offer up to $1,200 per month
- Most plans range between $500 and $1,000 per month
- The money is tax-free based on income
- The money is transferred directly into the bank account of the needy
Who is eligible for this scheme?
Each program has its own rules, but in general the following people are eligible:
- Low-income families
- Single parents (mostly women)
- Students and young people who need financial support with their studies
- Gig workers (such as Uber drivers, delivery boys, etc.)
- People released from jail who want to start their life again
Where are these schemes running?
Now let’s talk about the cities and states where this scheme has been implemented or is running at the pilot level:
1. Los Angeles, California – “Breathe” program
- Amount: $1,000 per month, for up to 3 years
- Beneficiaries: More than 1,000 poor families
- Objective: Increasing economic independence and self-esteem
2. Chicago, Illinois – “Resilient Communities Pilot”
- Amount: $500 per month, for up to 12 months
- Focus: Post-Covid economic recovery
3. Cambridge, Massachusetts – “Rise Up Cambridge”
- Amount: $500 per month
- Eligibility: Families whose income is less than 250% of the poverty line
4. Stockton, California – “SEED Program”
- Effect: Increased chances of full-time employment among people, improved mental health
What are the benefits of UBI?
Many researches have been done on UBI, and their results are very interesting. Let’s see what difference it made to people’s lives:
- Reduced financial stress: People who received monthly payments felt less stressed about everyday problems
- Helped in finding better jobs: People took the time to find a good job instead of odd jobs and found success
- Improved food and living conditions: Many paid rent on time and bought better food
- Easier childcare and education: Single mothers in particular said they were now able to spend more time with their children
Where is the funding coming from?
UBI schemes are funded from a number of places:
- Local governments – take some money out of their budgets
- Private donors and organisations – Twitter co-founder Jack Dorsey donated $15 million
- NGOs and social organisations – organisations like Mayors for a Guaranteed Income are working towards this mission
- In the future – a tax on the rich or an automation tax is also on the table
International examples
Finland:
- 2,000 unemployed people were given €560/month in 2017-18
- Results: improved self-esteem and mental health
Canada:
- Trial in Ontario but ended early
- Participants reported: reduced stress and increased completion of studies
Kenya:
- NGO GiveDirectly is transferring money to villages
- Results: Improvements in local development and poverty seen
What are the arguments against UBI?
Every scheme is criticized, and UBI is also not untouched by it:
- People will stop working: But research says that this does not happen
- It will be very expensive: It can take trillions of dollars to implement for an entire country
- Inflation can increase: Some economists believe that if too much money is printed, inflation can increase
- Old government schemes can end: Some people fear that this will end other benefits
What is the connection with automation and AI?
As robots and AI machines are taking over the work, the threat to human jobs is increasing. UBI is being considered as an option through which people can learn new skills, choose a new career, or start their own small business – without financial worries.
A report said that 25% of America’s jobs will be affected by AI and robots by 2030.
How do you Can I apply from here?
If you also want to know whether you can get a monthly assistance of $1,200 or not, then take these steps:
- Go to your city’s website: Type “Guaranteed Income Program” and check whether your city has a scheme or not
- Follow the Mayors for a Guaranteed Income website: Here you will keep getting the latest updates
- Subscribe by email: Register on the website of local organizations or NGOs providing financial assistance
- Check the application from time to time: Sometimes people are selected through a lottery system, so it is important to stay updated
Frequently asked questions
Q. Will all Americans get $1,200?
No, this amount is currently being given only in some pilot programs, not across the country.
Q. Will other government schemes end with UBI?
Some schemes will continue, some may change.
Q. For how long will UBI be available?
Pilot programs last from 12 to 36 months.
Q. Will illegal citizens also get UBI?
Currently, most schemes are only for legal residents.
Q. Will it increase inflation?
Small-scale schemes do not increase inflation, but careful planning is required at the large level.
Conclusion
UBI or Universal Basic Income is no longer a dream, but a growing reality. Many people in the US are taking advantage of it in 2025. If you are struggling financially, unemployed, or want to start afresh, then this scheme can be a support for you.
The $1,200 you get every month will not only give relief to your pocket, but will also give you a new direction – of self-reliance, respect and stability.
If you also want to join this scheme, then get ready from now, get the right information and apply in time. The future can be in your hands – and maybe even a $1,200 check.
For more information, visit: https://www.mayorsforagi.org
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