Through the years the organization has earned a reputation for independence, and credibility. Yet the Foundation is not void of perspective. From its founding day the organization has committed itself to principles which guide its research and public information programs and which should be the touchstones for all tax policy. Well Informed Citizenry. People must know who and what is being taxed and how tax legislation is enacted.
Complexity makes accurate tax compliance needlessly expensive and punitive.
Frequent change lessens citizen understanding of the tax code and complicates long-range financial planning. Taxpayers must have confidence in the law as it exists entering into a transaction. The primary purpose of taxes is to raise revenue, not to micromanage the economy with subsidies and penalties. The tax system should favor neither consumption nor saving and investment. Promote Economic Growth.