US tax time: A later deadline and other tax facts

Thanks to a holiday in Washington, D.C., the federal tax-filing deadline this year is April 17, two days later than usual. The extra time provides an opportunity to peruse some random tax-related facts.

- Ross Atkin, Staff

2. How US tax dollars are spent

Medicare, Medicaid, etc. – 21 percent
Social Security – 20 percent
Defense and security – 20 percent
Safety net programs – 14 percent
Federal retiree, veteran benefits – 7 percent
Interest on debt – 6 percent
Transportation, infrastructure – 3 percent
Education – 3 percentScientific, medical research – 2 percent
Foreign aid, etc. – 1 percent
All other – 2 percent

Source: Center on Budget and Policy Priorities