Job Search and Hyperbolic Discounting: Structural Estimation and Policy Evaluation

This article estimates the degree of hyperbolic discounting in a job search model quantitatively, using data on unemployment spells and accepted wages from the NLSY. The results point to a substantial degree of hyperbolic discounting for low and medium wage workers. The structural estimates are then used to evaluate alternative policy interventions aimed at reducing unemployment. The estimated effects of a given policy can vary by up to 40%, depending on the assumed type of time discounting. Some interventions may raise the long‐run utility of hyperbolic workers, and at the same time reduce unemployment duration and lower government expenditures.