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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.
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.
How Does the Capital Gains Tax Work Now, 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.
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Jan 23, 2026
The Six Largest Corporate Tax Expenditures
Relative to the size of the economy, the U.S. collects less revenues than many other advanced countries. Tax expenditures are a contributing reason.
Jan 22, 2026
What’s the Difference Between the Trade Deficit and Budget Deficit?
The terms “budget deficit” and “trade deficit” can be conflated, but they are distinct measurements of important fiscal and economic concepts.
Jan 22, 2026
Understanding the New Senior Deduction in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act
The senior deduction adds complexity to the tax code, and fewer than half of seniors will benefit from it.
Jan 21, 2026
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.
Jan 14, 2026
What Are Estate and Gift Taxes and How Do They Work?
Estate and gift taxes produce relatively lower revenue compared to other sources, but they generate a significant amount of attention, and even controversy.
Jan 14, 2026
Budget Basics: How Does Social Security Work?
Social Security is the largest single program in the federal budget and typically makes up one-fifth of total federal spending.
Jan 14, 2026
10 of the Largest Tax Breaks Explained
Tax breaks totaled over $2.0 trillion in 2025. That’s more than the government spends on Social Security, defense, or Medicare and Medicaid.