Number: RL30074
Title: The Consumer Price Index: A Brief Overview
Authors: Brian W. Cashell, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: The consumer price index (CPI) maybe the most widely reported measure of inflation, and a number of federal government programs are indexed to it. This report provides a description of how the CPI is calculated and provides information on what kinds of data are available. Historical data are presented as well as examples of how to make inflation adjustments to dollar amounts using the CPI.
Pages: 13
Date: February 28, 2008