GovernmentDefense

What does USAID do?

Data updated January 23, 2025

USAID is an independent agency responsible for administering foreign aid and economic development assistance outside the US. Its functions include supporting economic growth, global health, and education; providing humanitarian aid in response to crises; and advancing US foreign policy goals through partnerships. It was established in 1961 as part of the Foreign Assistance Act.

Other names and abbreviations for USAID:

  • US Agency for International Development
In FY 2024,

$21.7B

was spent by the USAID
In FY 2024,

0.3%

of federal spending was by the USAID
USAID spent $21.7 billion in fiscal year (FY) 2024. This was 0.3% of the $6.8 trillion in overall federal spending.
Federal spending may shift over time due to population growth, changes in policy and programs, and emerging problems to address. Since 1980, overall federal spending has risen 193.7%, while USAID spending has increased 106.4%.
The department’s spending grew less than overall spending, which means that the department’s share of the federal budget decreased. In 2024, USAID accounted for 0.3% of all federal spending, 0.2% lower than in 1980. In the last 10 years, that share has remained the same.
Major legislation, internal or global economic conditions, and acute events like the COVID-19 pandemic can affect spending year to year. For example, the federal budget fluctuated during the pandemic, rising from $5.3 trillion (in 2023 dollars) in 2019 to $7.7 trillion in 2020 and $7.8 trillion in 2021.

The USAID’s share of federal spending in FY 2024 was lower than FY 1980.

Percentage of federal budget dedicated to USAID, FYs 1980–2024

Most federal spending can be categorized as direct or indirect. Direct spending refers to money the federal government spends on budget items such as federal programs, employee salaries, and debt interest. Indirect spending refers to federal transfers to state and local governments.
In FY 2024, all of USAID’s spending was direct.
The chart below outlines all USAID spending.

How did the USAID spend its budget in 2024?

Federal government spending isolated to USAID, FY 2024

Who leads USAID?

USAID is headed by the administrator of the Agency for International Development, who is nominated by the president, confirmed by the Senate, and then sworn into office. This position is not a cabinet member but reports to the secretary of State. This appointed position typically ends when the appointee resigns, is replaced, or when a new president assumes office and appoints their own leadership, though some may serve temporarily during transitions between administrations.

Methodology

USAFacts standardizes data, in areas such as time and demographics, to make it easier to understand and compare.

Page sources

USAFacts endeavors to share the most up-to-date information available. We sourced the data on this page directly from government agencies; however, the intervals at which agencies publish updated data vary.

  • Office of Management and Budget and US Department of the Treasury

    Budget of the US Government and Monthly Treasury Statement

    Office of Management and Budget and US Department of the Treasury logo