Free Money From Governments Around the World

Dan Hurt

November 5, 2022

Free money is a popular way for countries to improve their economy and help people in difficult circumstances. The US experimented with this in the 1970s, giving cash assistance to approximately 7,500 citizens of several states. The results showed that cash assistance was practical and lowered recipients’ work hours.

Finland

A new experiment in Finland aims to eliminate the disincentives that keep some citizens from seeking employment. The country will give out free money to 2,000 citizens randomly chosen to become unemployed. The money will be deducted from their monthly benefits and will continue to come even if the people do not find a job. Finland’s social benefits agency, KELA, says the scheme aims to eliminate the “disincentive problem” among unemployed people.

The program has gained support from proponents like Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk, and Bernie Sanders. The program has been receiving requests from media from around the world. The idea was first floated in the 1980s by left-of-center political circles. It is intended to address the social and economic costs of declining industrial employment by giving more people a chance to make meaningful contributions to society. The goal is to eliminate poverty and provide financial security to all citizens.

Japan

Japan is giving out free money to its citizens to improve their situation and boost their economy. During the 2008 global economic crisis, the government gave a handout of USD 111 to each family affected by the Lehman shock. The money was seen as an attempt to make up for the lack of expendable income and was slow to reach affected families.

In addition to the free money, Japan offers scholarship programs for overseas students. US citizens can apply for scholarships through the Japanese Ministry of Education. The Japanese Consulate General in New York also accepts scholarship applications from US citizens.

Hong Kong

Hong Kong has announced a new cash-out scheme for its citizens to curb inflation. Under the scheme, a government-issued electronic voucher will be given to each adult permanent resident valued at HK$10,000. Applicants must register and choose whether they wish to receive the cash payment by cheque or electronic transfer. The registration period ends on 31 December 2021.

The government’s recent crackdown has resulted in some protesters attempting to make their voices heard in Hong Kong. While the government has been able to deter many protesters and activists in the past, its rule of law has deteriorated. In political cases, the prosecution often gets what it wants, while the defense is often shut out. Judges often inflict injustice in the name of justice. In the Jimmy Lai case, the prosecution threatened to send Lai across the border if bail was granted.

Spain

Spain is introducing a new initiative to provide free money for rent to young people between 18 and 35. The initiative is part of the government’s housing plan and will be available to adults earning less than EUR23,725 a year. Spain’s youth unemployment rate is 38%, higher than the national average, and the country’s rental market is shrinking. Between 2006 and 2018, the number of new houses built in the country dropped from eight hundred thousand to ninety thousand. With a lack of housing stock, rents have increased in major cities. The lack of supply makes it difficult for young people to afford a home.

In 1983, Spain divided itself into 17 autonomous communities. These communities have their governments and constitutions. Each has a unicameral legislature, a president, and a council of government. The government aims to ensure the security of each community.

United States

If you need help paying the bills, there are many government programs to help you. These programs can help you pay for college, daycare, or even a new home. The COVID relief program took on a new meaning in 2020 and 2021, but it has since been ended. While the government is still committed to providing free money to Americans, other government programs can also help you pay the bills. For example, if you were affected by a disease like a coronavirus, you could receive a $1,000 check every month for life.

The government annually awards over $80 million in free grant money. These free government funds go to individuals, nonprofits, and even businesses. The great thing about applying for these government grants is that you do not have to provide collateral or prove your income. However, you must match your interest with the program’s goals.