Welfare to Work in the U. S.: A Model for Germany?

Social assistance in Germany reduces the incentive to work. The U.S. Welfare to Work Programme tries to avoid such disincentives. It consists essentially of two elements: the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) for employees in low-wage occupations and a Workfare model. The EITC and the Workfare model as implemented in the State of Wisconsin are described and analyzed. In conclusion, the introduction of an EITC and a workfare approach in Germany is recommended.