A stylized illustration of diverse people taking part in activities like taking a family photo, taking a walk, playing soccer, and learning the piano.

Explore stories about five fictional families, the challenges they face filing taxes and claiming federal tax benefits like the earned income tax credit and the child tax credit, and solutions that Congress, the IRS, and others can pursue so that the tax system helps all families thrive.

 Tile map of the United States showing the percent change in household income from 1970-2023

Headlines often declare that the average person in the US is better off financially now than they were 50 years ago, but not every state has experienced the same economic growth.

 Three suburban houses on a snow-dusted street

An executive order issued by President Trump seeks to ban large institutional investors from purchasing single-family homes, yet the proposal may not effectively address housing affordability.

 photo of woman standing holding child in front of grocery aisle

Timely data on Americans’ finances and the cost of basic needs by state and congressional district.

 A mother kisses her toddler, who is looking at the camera

Automatic enrollment is the most effective way to ensure all families can benefit from the wealth-building opportunities that Trump accounts offer. 
Spotlight on Housing and Communities
Photo of a street lined with colorful houses on a snowy day.
A mother and father pushing a baby in a stroller down a neighborhood sidewalk.
photo of a woman with umbrella waiting at a bus stop during rainy weather
Aerial view of single family homes.

“It felt like research in the beginning, but it felt like family at the end, because we all came together.” — Stan Hamilton, High School Football Coach at Benning Terrace

Read: Making Their Voices Heard: Improving Research through Community Collaboration.

“When investing in communities, it’s important to make sure that in that funding, there are opportunities for the people who are already invested in their communities to be a part of it.” — Courtney Gibbs, Program Director, Sasha Bruce Youthwork

Read: Why Investing in Trusted Community-Based Organizations Is Crucial to Sustainability.

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