The National Debt Can Crowd Out Investments in the Economy — Here’s How
Large amounts of federal debt could “crowd out” investments by the private sector, making the economy less productive and stunting wage growth.
Read MorePayroll 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.
Read MoreDebt vs. Deficits: What’s the Difference?
The words debt and deficit come up frequently in debates about policy decisions. The two concepts are similar, but are often confused.
Read MoreHow Much Government Spending Goes to Children?
Interest costs on the national debt are expected to rapidly outstrip spending on children in coming years.
Read MoreThe United States Spends More on Defense than the Next 6 Countries Combined
Defense spending by the United States accounted for 33 percent of military expenditures by countries around the world.
Read MoreBudget 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.
Read MoreHow Much Does the Government Spend on International Affairs?
Federal spending for international affairs, which supports American diplomacy and development aid, is a small portion of the U.S. budget.
Read MoreWhat Is Inflation and Why Does It Matter?
Here’s an overview of inflation, why it matters, and how it’s managed.
Read MoreThe Highway Trust Fund Explained
The funding structure of the Highway Trust Fund requires serious, long-term changes, but how to approach reform remains a topic of debate.
Read MoreWhat 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.
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