Think tank · Policy · Connecticut Avenue N.W., Suite · Est. 1981
The Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB) is a nonpartisan, nonprofit, 501(c)(3) organization incorporated in 1981 that focuses on federal fiscal policy and budget process issues. CRFB describes its mission as educating the public on issues with significant fiscal policy impact and serving as an “authoritative voice” for fiscal responsibility for both policymakers and the public.
Its work centers on producing research and analysis, delivering policy-focused educational programming, and building interactive tools that help audiences understand trade-offs in the federal budget and the solvency risks facing major programs. CRFB also runs issue- and program-specific initiatives such as FixUS (aimed at understanding root causes of political dysfunction and divisions), and “Tell the Truth about Social Security,” an educational and engagement effort to raise awareness about Social Security’s financial outlook and encourage action well in advance of insolvency.
Note: This paper has been updated
Memo Ceas Flawed Analysis Does Not Show Tcja Extension Would Produce 3 GrowthCRFB released a statement responding to the administration’s stated focus on fiscal consolidation, arguing that meaningful fiscal consolidation would require significant savings (including ideas for Social Security, health care savings, discretionary caps, and other areas).
Gross National Debt Reaches $40 TrillionCRFB issued a statement after the gross national debt reached $40 trillion, providing context on prior milestones and emphasizing implications for interest costs and fiscal sustainability.
Don’t Let Social Security’s 91st Birthday Be One of Its LastCRFB released a statement marking Social Security’s 91st anniversary, warning that Social Security faces insolvency in about six years and highlighting the consequences of inaction.
Treasury Confirms $1.8 Trillion Deficit for First 10 Months of FY 2026CRFB published a statement using Treasury’s Monthly Treasury Statement data, noting the pace of borrowing in FY 2026 and urging a fiscal consolidation plan targeting deficit reduction toward a 3% of GDP goal.
CBO Estimates $1.8 Trillion Deficit for First 10 Months of FY 2026CRFB issued a statement based on CBO’s Monthly Budget Review figures for borrowing/deficit over the first ten months of FY 2026, urging action and pointing to 3% of GDP deficits and a bipartisan commission approach.
CRFB reported on the introduction of bipartisan House legislation intended to strengthen the congressional budget process, improve fiscal transparency, and establish a commission to recommend policies for the nation’s fiscal outlook, including a 3% deficit-to-GDP goal.