Jeff Ernsthausen
I am a reporter who specializes in using data analysis and code to find stories.
Have a Tip for a Story?
I’m interested in tips about the immigration system, government contracting and ways that the wealthy shield themselves from taxes. If you have data that you think could be analyzed for the public benefit, I’d also like to hear from you.
What I Cover
I report on immigration, government contracting, and the intersection of money and power.
My Background
I’m a senior data reporter at Propublica. In recent years, I have primarily covered the U.S. tax system. I worked with a team of reporters on “The Secret IRS Files,” which revealed the ways that the ultrawealthy avoid taxes. Before that, I reported on the ways that wealthy developers influenced the Trump-era tax break for so-called opportunity zones. I also contributed to ProPublica’s coverage of debt collection, evictions and bailouts during the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Prior to joining ProPublica, I worked on the investigative team at The Atlanta-Journal Constitution, looking into topics such as sexual abuse by physicians nationwide, police misconduct in Georgia and evictions in metro Atlanta. Before my career in journalism, I studied history and economics and worked as a financial and economic analyst at the Federal Reserve.
My work has spurred congressional investigations and changes in government policy. It’s also been honored with numerous journalism awards, including the Selden Ring, two Scripps Howard awards and several awards from Investigative Reporters and Editors, among them the Philip Meyer Award for data journalism.
You May Be Paying a Higher Tax Rate Than a Billionaire
A new ProPublica analysis of a trove of IRS documents revealed that the richest 25 Americans pay a tiny fraction of their wealth in taxes. But even if you use the most conventional yardstick — income — the wealthiest still pay low rates.
The Trump Administration Allowed Aviation Companies to Take Bailout Funds and Lay Off Workers, Says House Report
Instead of using bailout money to keep workers, at least two companies restored the full pay of their top management.
Debt Collectors Have Made a Fortune This Year. Now They’re Coming for More.
After a pause for the pandemic, debt buyers are back in the courts, suing debtors by the thousands.
The Eviction Ban Worked, but It’s Almost Over. Some Landlords Are Getting Ready.
The CARES Act was largely successful in keeping millions of American renters from facing eviction during the pandemic. As protections fade, some landlords are gearing up to return to court.
The Airline Bailout Loophole: Companies Laid Off Workers, Then Got Money Meant to Prevent Layoffs
Three companies including Gate Gourmet, a global provider of airline meals, received $338 million in relief money for workers — and laid workers off anyway.
Capital One and Other Debt Collectors Are Still Coming for Millions of Americans
As the COVID-19 pandemic hit, Americans got protection from evictions, foreclosures and student debt. But debt collectors have continued to siphon off their share of paychecks from those who still have jobs.
Can I Be Evicted During Coronavirus?
Even if you live in a state that has not banned evictions, federal rules may still protect you. Look up your address to learn more.
Can You Be Evicted During Coronavirus? Here’s How to Find Out.
The CARES Act temporarily protects millions of renters from being evicted, and many states and cities passed their own rules to help those struggling to pay rent. Use our new database to find out if eviction bans might apply to you.
Despite Federal Ban, Landlords Are Still Moving to Evict People During the Pandemic
ProPublica found landlords in at least four states have violated the ban, which was put in place by the CARES Act but has no clear enforcement mechanism.
For Americans With Bills to Pay, Help Is on the Way. Sort Of.
Politicians have touted debt relief, but the various proposals are patchwork. Many homeowners and renters won’t get much help; those struggling with credit card, car and other loan payments will get none.