Talking Points Memo: Why The Checks-For-Everyone Idea To Ward Off A Recession Is Gaining Steam

An analysis by the Institute on Taxation and Economic Policy found that the top 20 percent of income earners would reap two-third of the benefit of a payroll tax cut, while the bottom fifth of income earners would receive only 2 percent of the benefit. A direct cash transfer, particularly one phased out at higher income levels, would shift more of the financial benefit to lower earners. Read more