Breakdown of the president’s salary

According to CNBC reports, the President of the United States receives an annual salary of $400,000 (approximately Rs. 3.36 crore), paid monthly. In addition to this, the president is allotted an expenditure allowance of $50,000 (Rs. 42 lakh) (non-taxable), a travel account of $100,000 (Rs. 84 lakh) and a budget of $19,000 (Rs. 16). lakh rupees) for entertainment. These amounts are specified in Title 3 of the U.S. Code.

Additionally, presidents receive $100,000 (Rs 84 lakh) to redecorate the White House upon taking office, although some, like Barack Obama, have chosen to use personal funds. The position also includes access to secure, luxury transportation such as Air Force One, Marine One and the presidential limousine, known as ‘The Beast.’ Additionally, the president and his family receive full-time security, lodging at the White House, and food and living expenses covered.

While the position carries significant responsibilities, this salary has remained stagnant since the last adjustment in 2001. Compensation reflects the importance and demands of the position, but requests for periodic raises have been limited by budgetary considerations and public perception.

Salary of presidents in the past

Historically, the salaries of American presidents have fluctuated with inflation and congressional adjustments. When George Washington took office in 1789, he earned $25,000 (2.1 million rupees today) a year, a sum that would be equivalent to about $895,741 today. Later, in 1873, presidential pay was increased to $50,000 (4.2 million rupees today), equivalent to approximately $1.3 million today. This upward trend continued in 1909 with a salary of $75,000 (6.3 million rupees today), which is equivalent to $2.6 million in today’s terms. This further reached $100,000 in 1949, with a taxable expense account of $50,000 included.

In 1969, Congress again increased the president’s salary to $200,000 plus an expense account of $50,000. This figure remained unchanged for more than 30 years, until 2001, when it was doubled to $400,000 in recognition of the increasing remuneration of high-level positions in the private sector.

Pensions and post-presidency earnings

Under the Former Presidents Act of 1958, former presidents receive an annual pension, currently exceeding $200,000 (Rs 1.68 million), after leaving office. They are also provided with office space, travel funds, and lifetime protection from the Secret Service. Many presidents capitalize on their post-White House years by writing memoirs, giving speeches, and signing media deals, often generating substantial additional income. Ulysses S Grant was one of the first presidents to write a memoir, setting a trend that most modern presidents have followed.

Unlike the president, the First Lady of the United States does not receive a salary or official compensation. Although the position involves responsibilities such as organizing events and promoting social causes, it is not an elected position nor is it defined in the Constitution. Despite the lack of financial compensation, the role of the First Lady has become an integral part of the public and cultural life of the United States.