What is Basic Income?

Basic income provides people with a stable financial foundation. It helps ensure that when life changes, whether through a job transition, caregiving, illness, education, or an unexpected setback, people have the stability they need to continue participating in their families, communities, civic life, and the economy.

Learn more about basic income and take action to support it.

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Why it Matters

Strong communities are built on strong foundations. Just as we invest in public education and universal health care, income security is a foundation that helps people navigate life’s transitions, contribute to their communities, and build a stronger economy.

Research suggests that income security:

• Promotes better physical and mental health
• Provides greater financial stability during life’s transitions
• Supports employment, education, entrepreneurship, caregiving, and volunteering
• Reduces pressure on health care, emergency services, and other public systems
• Strengthens local economies through increased consumer spending and community participation

When people have a stable financial foundation, individuals, businesses, and communities all benefit.

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Who Benefits?

• Maintain stable housing during financial challenges
• Improve health, reduce stress, and plan for the future
• Pursue education, retraining, entrepreneurship, caregiving, or meaningful work

Real stories remind us that income insecurity affects people in many different ways. Living Below the Line shares experiences of poverty, stigma, resilience, and the importance of creating communities where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

To explore Living Below the Line, including access to the film, please visit https://catherinefrid.com/living-below-the-line-the-film/

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Why Communities are Exploring Basic Income

In Canada and around the world, governments are exploring basic income as one approach to strengthening income security, improving well-being, supporting economic resilience, and reducing pressure on public systems. 

Basic income is not just a theoretical idea. Research from pilots and programs has provided evidence of positive impacts on health, financial stability, employment, and well-being. 

Examples include:

• Basic income initiatives in South Korea
• Ireland’s basic income for artists
• The Marshall Islands’ permanent basic income

These examples demonstrate that basic income is being tested and implemented in different ways to help build healthier, more resilient communities.

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How Can I help?

There are many ways to support the movement for basic income:

• Learn more
• Talk to your friends, family, and elected representatives
• Attend an event
• Sign up for updates
• Sign a petition
• Volunteer with us!