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Less Than Equal: Racial Disparities in Wealth Accumulation

April 1, 2013

When it comes to economic gaps between whites and communities of color in the United States, income inequality tells part of the story. But let's not forget about wealth. Wealth isn't just money in the bank, it's insurance against tough times, tuition to get a better education and a better job, savings to retire on, and a springboard into the middle class. In short, wealth translates into opportunity.

Private Transfers, Race, and Wealth

August 8, 2011

Examines racial/ethnic disparities in private transfers of financial support from extended families and friends, large gifts, and inheritances, as well as net support received after transfers given; their impact on wealth disparities; and implications.

Childhood Poverty Persistence: Facts and Consequences

June 30, 2010

Examines the persistence and effects of childhood poverty by studying the incidence and duration of poverty among African-American and white children from birth to age 17 and adult outcomes including income, educational attainment, and employment.

Weathering the Storm: Have IDAs Helped Low-Income Homebuyers Avoid Foreclosure?

April 1, 2010

Examines the demographics of low-income families with Individual Development Accounts, matched savings accounts designed to help them save and build assets through homeownership; their loan terms; and foreclosure rates. Discusses policy implications.

Do Assets Help Families Cope With Adverse Events?

December 1, 2009

Compares the extent to which families with liquid assets are better able to maintain their material well-being when adverse events affecting income such as job loss or illness occurs than families without assets. Compares effects by income distribution.

Enabling Families to Weather Emergencies and Develop: The Role of Assets

July 15, 2008

Discusses the need for low-income families to build assets for emergencies and employment gaps as well as for long-term stability. Suggests policies to improve savings and ownership opportunities such as incentives and better regulation of small loans.

Do Welfare and IDA Program Policies Affect Asset Holdings?

May 1, 2008

Analyzes how more lenient state asset tests and eligibility rules, more generous Individual Development Account program rules, and withdrawal restrictions and incentives for restricted savings accounts affect low-income families' asset accumulation.