US Treasury Borrows $155 Billion Monthly, Interest Payments Hit $24 Billion a Week

The U.S. Treasury has borrowed approximately $155 billion every month of this fiscal year and is now paying $24 billion a week in interest on its debts.

Borrowing and Interest Payments

The U.S. Treasury has maintained a borrowing level of around $155 billion per month in 2026, significantly impacting the national debt. The Congressional Budget Office (CBO) reported that net interest on public debt has reached $857 billion, approximately $23.8 billion per week.

Debt Level and Demographics

The total U.S. national debt stands at $39.4 trillion. The aging population is driving increased spending on social security, Medicare, and Medicaid. Spending for Social Security benefits rose by $62 billion (5%), Medicare outlays increased by $58 billion (8%), and Medicaid spending increased by $49 billion (10%).

Expert Insights

Maya MacGuineas, president of the Committee for a Responsible Federal Budget, stated that "the FY 2026 deficit has now surpassed the FY 2025 deficit—and it is likely to stay that way for the rest of the fiscal year." She emphasized the need for policymakers to address entitlements and reduce spending.

Fiscal Future Concerns

There are warnings that Social Security and Medicare funds could be exhausted within seven years. MacGuineas advocates for a deficit target of 3% of GDP and urges policymakers to be honest about the dangers of the current fiscal path.

The U.S. borrowing level and interest payments paint a concerning picture for economic sustainability. With debt interest surpassing budgets for defense and other critical departments, this trend could have adverse effects on long-term economic growth.