Every household would be guaranteed a minimum amount of money each month under the government's Universal Basic Income (UBI) scheme. The amount is calculated by taking into account the number of people living in the home, although it is always meant to serve as an emergency cushion. To help people escape poverty, the program provides a steady stream of payments over time. In addition, it provides a means for people with modest incomes to save money and raise their standard of living. Over 600,000 Alaskans, for example, are already participating in the state's basic income program.