Tax Credits

The U.S. tax code contains many preferences, such as tax credits, that lower the amount of taxes owed. Some of those tax credits are “refundable,” which means that people can receive payments from the government if the amount of their credit exceeds their other tax liabilities. CBO analyzes the effects on the economy and the federal budget of existing tax credits and possible changes to tax credits.

  • Report
    The Distribution of Household Income, 2018

    In 2018, average household income after accounting for means-tested transfers and federal taxes was $37,700 among households in the lowest quintile and $243,900 among households in the highest quintile.

  • Report
    The Effects of Pandemic-Related Legislation on Output

    By providing financial support to households, businesses, and state and local governments, federal laws enacted in response to the 2020 coronavirus pandemic will offset part of the deterioration in economic conditions brought about by the pandemic.