The US federal government posted a budget deficit of $164.1 billion in March 2026, up from $160.5 billion in the same month a year earlier and above market expectations of a $156.7 billion shortfall. Total outlays rose to $549 billion from $528.2 billion, with the largest spending categories including Social Security at $139 billion, healthcare at $90 billion, and national defense at $69 billion. Government receipts increased to $384.9 billion from $367.6 billion, supported mainly by individual income taxes at $189 billion, social insurance and retirement contributions at $152 billion, and customs duties at $22 billion.