Federal Surplus or Deficit [-]
FYFSD • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-1,832,816.00
Year-over-Year Change
70.25%
Date Range
6/30/1901 - 9/30/2024
Summary
The Federal Surplus or Deficit measures the difference between total government receipts and total government expenditures. It is a key indicator of the U.S. government's fiscal health and a factor in economic policy decisions.
Analysis & Context
This economic indicator provides valuable insights into current market conditions and economic trends. The data is updated regularly by the Federal Reserve and represents one of the most reliable sources for economic analysis.
Understanding this metric helps economists, policymakers, and investors make informed decisions about economic conditions and future trends. The interactive chart above allows you to explore historical patterns and identify key trends over time.
About This Dataset
The Federal Surplus or Deficit represents the U.S. government's net fiscal position, showing whether it is spending more or less than it collects in revenue. It is a widely followed metric that informs assessments of economic growth, inflation, and the sustainability of fiscal policy.
Methodology
The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on official government financial accounts.
Historical Context
Policymakers and analysts use the Federal Surplus or Deficit to evaluate the government's fiscal stance and its potential impacts on the broader economy.
Key Facts
- The U.S. has run a budget deficit in most years since 2001.
- The deficit reached a high of over $1.4 trillion in 2009 during the Great Recession.
- Reducing the deficit is often a goal of fiscal consolidation policies.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Federal Surplus or Deficit measures the difference between the U.S. government's total receipts and total expenditures.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The federal fiscal position is a key input for assessments of economic growth, inflation, and the sustainability of government finances.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is calculated by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis based on official government financial accounts.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and analysts use the Federal Surplus or Deficit to evaluate the government's fiscal stance and its potential impacts on the broader economy.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The data is published on a monthly basis with a lag of several weeks.
Related Trends
Gross Federal Debt Held by the Public
FYGFDPUB
Federal Surplus or Deficit [-] as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
FYFSGDA188S
Federal Receipts
FYFR
Market Value of Privately Held Gross Federal Debt
MVPHGFD027MNFRBDAL
Gross Federal Debt as Percent of Gross Domestic Product
GFDGDPA188S
Federal Debt Held by Foreign and International Investors
FDHBFIN
Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Federal Surplus or Deficit [-] (FYFSD), retrieved from FRED.