K.E.M. Strategic Partners LLC | 35 Village Road, Suite 100 | Middleton MA 01949 | P. 978-560-3404  |  F. 978.560.1623

 
 

Caring  |   Independent   |   Practical
Financial Services

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 $6.27 trillion in federal spending for 2022 into major categories. One of the biggest categories is Social Security, which consumes almost one-fourth of the budget. Safety net programs, which includes food assistance and unemployment compensation, takes another 11%. Defense and related items take 18% of the budget, and 24% goes to Medicare and health programs.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

More than 60% of 2022 federal spending was used for Social Security, Medicare, defense, and related programs.

Source: Treasury.gov, 2022

1. ValuePenguin.com, September 1, 2022
2. Treasury.gov, 2022

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

Starting a Roth IRA for a Teen

Starting a Roth IRA for a Teen

This early financial decision could prove helpful over time.

The Business Cycle

The Business Cycle

Understanding the economy's cycles can help put current business conditions in better perspective.

What Is a 1035 Exchange?

What Is a 1035 Exchange?

1035 exchanges provide a way to trade-in an annuity contract or life insurance policy without triggering a tax liability.

 

Have A Question About This Topic?







Thank you! Oops!

Breaking Down the Parts of Medicare

Medicare is broken down into four specific parts—but what do they mean? This article will help you understand each piece.

Find That Lost Retirement Account

With over 24 million “forgotten” 401(k) accounts, you may be surprised to learn of your unclaimed “found” money.

Navigating Retirement Pitfalls

Why are they made again and again? Making sense of these errors in judgement.

View all articles

Lifetime of Earnings

Estimate how much you have the potential to earn during your working years.

Should I Buy or Lease an Auto?

This calculator compares the financial impact of leasing versus buying an automobile.

Home Mortgage Deduction

Use this calculator to assess the potential benefits of a home mortgage deduction.

View all calculators

An Inside Look at Retirement Living

A number of questions and concerns need to be addressed to help you better prepare for retirement living.

Your Cash Flow Statement

A presentation about managing money: using it, saving it, and even getting credit.

Investment Strategies for Retirement

Investment tools and strategies that can enable you to pursue your retirement goals.

View all presentations

The Long Run: Women and Retirement

For women, retirement strategy is a long race. It’s helpful to know the route.

Suddenly Single: 3 Steps to Take Now

Have you found yourself suddenly single? Here are 3 steps to take right now.

A New Way to Look at Your Bucket List

Bucket lists don’t have to be for tomorrow.

View all videos