To refine and expand your guide within the outlined constraints, I've enhanced the descriptions for the think tanks, fact-checking organizations, and academic/policy sources. This version aims to provide a concise yet informative primer on where to find balanced information and analysis on U.S. economic policy, government spending, and social programs, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives and accessibility.

### Think Tanks/Research Organizations

1. **Center on Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP)** - Primarily focuses on analyzing the impact of budget policies on low-income populations. Known for its detailed reports on fiscal policies and their effects on poverty and inequality. [cbpp.org](https://www.cbpp.org)
   
2. **Brookings Institution** - Offers comprehensive research across various domains including U.S. and international economics, urban planning, and public policy. Renowned for its independent and in-depth analysis. [brookings.edu](https://www.brookings.edu)
   
3. **American Enterprise Institute (AEI)** - Provides conservative perspectives on issues like tax policy, government spending, and free enterprise. AEI experts contribute research that advocates for free-market solutions. [aei.org](https://www.aei.org)
   
4. **Tax Policy Center** - A collaboration between the Urban Institute and Brookings, this center is known for its nonpartisan analysis of tax policies, focusing on their implications for the economy and taxpayers. [taxpolicycenter.org](https://www.taxpolicycenter.org)
   
5. **Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget (CRFB)** - Specializes in analyzing federal budgets, fiscal policies, and their long-term impact. Advocates for responsible fiscal governance. [crfb.org](https://www.crfb.org)

### Fact-Checking Organizations

1. **PolitiFact** - Uses its "Truth-O-Meter" to rate the accuracy of claims by officials, pundits, and others in the political arena. Known for its detailed analysis and commitment to transparency. [politifact.com](https://www.politifact.com)
   
2. **FactCheck.org** - Operated by the Annenberg Public Policy Center, it scrutinizes the factual accuracy of statements from U.S. political figures. Offers detailed analyses and debunking of false claims. [factcheck.org](https://www.factcheck.org)
   
3. **Washington Post Fact Checker** - Known for its "Pinocchio" rating system, it assesses the truthfulness of political statements. Provides in-depth investigations into political rhetoric. [washingtonpost.com/news/fact-checker](https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/fact-checker/)

### Academic/Policy Sources

1. **National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER)** - Publishes working papers and research by affiliated economists on a wide array of economic topics, including fiscal policy and economic performance. [nber.org](https://www.nber.org)
   
2. **Government Accountability Office (GAO)** - Known as the "congressional watchdog," GAO provides audit and investigative reports on federal spending and performance, offering a wealth of data and analysis. [gao.gov](https://www.gao.gov)
   
3. **Congressional Research Service (CRS) reports** - Offers non-partisan, in-depth analysis on legislative issues, including economic policy. Reports are accessible through various public and governmental databases.
   
4. **Academic Journals** - Publications like the **American Economic Review** and **Journal of Economic Perspectives** offer peer-reviewed research on economics, providing insights from various schools of thought. Accessible through academic libraries and databases.

This enhanced guide aims to serve as a concise resource for navigating the complex landscape of economic policy analysis, emphasizing non-partisan sources and the importance of accessing diverse viewpoints for a well-rounded understanding.