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Popular Articles
The Federal Government Has Borrowed Trillions. Who Owns All that Debt?
Most federal debt is owed to domestic holders, but foreign ownership is much higher now than it was about 50 years ago.
Social Security Is in Trouble. What Does That Mean for Younger Americans?
Social Security’s looming insolvency is also a threat to the economic future of younger Americans.
Chart Pack: The U.S. Budget
A selection of key charts that give an overview of the major components in the U.S. federal budget.
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Aug 13, 2026
Chart Pack: Individual Taxes
A selection of key charts on individual income taxes in the United States and how they fit within the federal budget.
Jun 22, 2026
Payroll Taxes: What Are They and What Do They Fund?
Payroll taxes fund social insurance programs including Social Security and Medicare and are the second-largest source of revenues for the federal government.
May 26, 2026
IRS Staffing Cuts Will Reduce Revenues, Driving Deficits Higher
Reductions in IRS personnel decrease federal revenues, increase deficits, and significantly exacerbate the gap between taxes that are owed and taxes that are actually paid.
May 15, 2026
A Gas Tax Holiday Costs Billions, But Consumers See Only Marginal Savings
If the full savings from the gas tax holiday were passed on to consumers, the average licensed driver would only save approximately $8.90 per month.
May 4, 2026
Budget Basics: What Is the Earned Income Tax Credit?
The earned income tax credit (EITC) is a measure administered through the tax code to address poverty.
Apr 14, 2026
What Is Stepped-Up Basis on Capital Gains and How Does It Affect the Federal Budget?
The step-up in basis is a provision in tax law that relates to how assets — such as stocks, bonds, or real estate — are valued and taxed after their owner passes away.
Apr 7, 2026
How Does the Capital Gains Tax Work, and What Are Some Proposed Reforms?
While the capital gains tax affects anyone selling a capital asset, higher-income individuals are typically subject to the tax more so than average Americans.