3244 Brookside Rd 
Suite 140 
Stockton, CA 95219

Tax Read Time: 2 min

What Do Your Taxes Pay For?

Taxes are one of the biggest budget items for most taxpayers, yet many have no idea what they’re getting for their money.

The average household spends more on taxes than on groceries, clothing, or healthcare. In fact, 11% of our income, on average, goes to personal income taxes, which doesn’t include sales tax, property tax, Social Security payments, or Medicare payments. So what do we get in return?1

The accompanying chart breaks down the $6.8 trillion in federal spending for 2024 into major categories. One of the biggest categories is Social Security, which consumes 22% of the budget. Defense takes 13% of the budget, and 13% goes to Medicare.2

Are taxes one of your biggest budget items? Take steps to make sure you’re managing your overall tax bill. Please consult a tax professional for specific information regarding your individual situation.

Pieces of the Federal Pie

Over half of 2024 federal spending was used for Social Security, Medicare, defense, and Medicaid.

Source: CBO.gov, March 20, 2025. Figures represent total outlays for the 2024 fiscal year, as reported by the Congressional Budget Office.

1. ValuePenguin.com, January 10, 2024
2. CBO.gov, March 20, 2025

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright FMG Suite.

 

Related Content

Tax Deductions You Won't Believe

Tax Deductions You Won't Believe

Here are some examples of deductions from the IRS that were permitted and some that were, uh, too creative.

4 Elements of an Estate Strategy

4 Elements of an Estate Strategy

Learn about the importance of having an estate strategy in this helpful and informative video.

Teen Drinking and Your Liability

Teen Drinking and Your Liability

Drinking may be a “rite of passage” for teens, but when it occurs in your home you may be held responsible for their actions.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

9 Facts About Retirement

Regardless of how you approach retirement, there are some things about it that might surprise you.

Financially Savvy at Six Figures

Help your clients with these practical steps to make the most of their six-figure income.

Why Do Renters Have to Save More?

How much more would retirement cost if you owned your home rather than rented? It could actually be several times less.

View all articles

How Long Will Your Money Last?

See how long a lump sum of savings could last based on your withdrawal rate and return.

What's Your MPG?

Calculate your vehicle's fuel efficiency and see what you're spending on gas annually.

Annuity Comparison

Compare annuity options to see how each one could affect your long-term income outlook.

View all calculators

Investments

You’ve made investments your whole life. Work with us to help make the most of them.

Stay Safe with a Business Owner's Policy

Learn the advantages of Business Owner's Policies with this highly educational and fun animated video.

It May Be Time for a Financial Checkup

It’s never a bad time to speak with your financial professional about changes in your situation.

View all videos