This overview of tax policy explains essential concepts clearly and concisely. Chapters open with brief descriptions of a policy area, providing a synopsis of the current state of the law. This is followed by a balanced and apolitical discussion of arguments for and against the current law and commonly proposed alternatives. Wide-ranging coverage of all critical tax policies from federal Social Security and income taxes to state and local budgeting to international transfer pricing examine the building blocks of the tax system. Ample footnotes provide easy access to articles and standard reference works allowing readers to dig deeper on their own.