Institute for Fiscal Studies

About the charity

The goal of the Institute for Fiscal Studies (IFS) is to promote effective economic and social policies by understanding better their impact on individuals, families, businesses and the government's finances.

Research findings are based on rigorous analysis, detailed empirical evidence and in-depth institutional knowledge. The Institute seeks to communicate them effectively, to a wide range of audiences, thereby maximising their impact on policy both directly and by informing public debate.

IFS is independent of all political parties and other vested interests and is established as Britain's leading independent microeconomic research institute, and as an authoritative commentator on the public finances, tax and welfare policy, tax law, education, inequality and poverty, pensions, productivity and innovation, consumer behaviour and the evaluation of policies designed to promote development in poorer countries.

IFS has a hard-won reputation for objectivity and impartiality. This is reflected in the way the Institute is funded. As a charity it welcomes support from charitable foundations, and public and private bodies, to help fund particular pieces of research. The Institute also relies crucially on core funding from the Economic and Social Research Council and from support from organisations and individuals.