Federal Budget Surplus or Deficit for the United States
M1525BUSM144NNBR • Economic Data from Federal Reserve Economic Data (FRED)
Latest Value
-34.50
Year-over-Year Change
-81.88%
Date Range
11/1/1914 - 12/1/1932
Summary
The Federal Budget Surplus or Deficit for the United States measures the difference between government revenue and spending over a given period. This key fiscal indicator helps economists and policymakers assess the government's fiscal position and manage the national debt.
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 Budget Surplus or Deficit represents the balance between total federal government receipts and total federal government outlays. It is a critical measure of the government's fiscal health and a key input for economic policy decisions.
Methodology
The data is compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis from government financial records.
Historical Context
Policymakers and market analysts closely monitor the federal budget balance to gauge the government's fiscal stance and its potential impact on the broader economy.
Key Facts
- The U.S. federal budget has run a deficit in 49 of the last 50 years.
- The largest federal budget deficit on record was $3.1 trillion in 2020.
- The federal budget balance is a key input for the national debt calculation.
FAQs
Q: What does this economic trend measure?
A: The Federal Budget Surplus or Deficit measures the difference between total federal government receipts (revenues) and total federal government outlays (spending) over a given period.
Q: Why is this trend relevant for users or analysts?
A: The federal budget balance is a critical indicator of the government's fiscal health and a key input for economic policy decisions. It helps policymakers and analysts assess the government's ability to fund its operations and manage the national debt.
Q: How is this data collected or calculated?
A: The data is compiled by the U.S. Bureau of Economic Analysis from government financial records.
Q: How is this trend used in economic policy?
A: Policymakers and market analysts closely monitor the federal budget balance to gauge the government's fiscal stance and its potential impact on the broader economy. It informs decisions around taxation, spending, and debt management.
Q: Are there update delays or limitations?
A: The federal budget data is typically released on a monthly basis with a short delay. There may be revisions to historical data as the government finalizes its accounts.
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Citation
U.S. Federal Reserve, Federal Budget Surplus or Deficit for the United States (M1525BUSM144NNBR), retrieved from FRED.