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U.S. Interest Payments Soar to $1.22 Trillion Amid Deficit Cuts

1/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

The U.S. Treasury paid $92 billion in net interest on the national debt in the last quarter of 2025, a 13% increase from 2024, according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).
Total interest for fiscal year 2025 reached $1.22 trillion, driven by a larger debt and rising long-term interest rates.
The CBO reported a $601 billion deficit for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, $110 billion lower than the previous year due to increased revenues and reduced spending.
Customs duties contributed significantly to this reduction, exceeding last year's figures by $70 billion.

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Story summary

The U.S. Treasury paid $92 billion in net interest on the national debt in the last quarter of 2025, a 13% increase from 2024, according to the Congressional Budget Office (CBO).
Total interest for fiscal year 2025 reached $1.22 trillion, driven by a larger debt and rising long-term interest rates.
The CBO reported a $601 billion deficit for the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, $110 billion lower than the previous year due to increased revenues and reduced spending.
Customs duties contributed significantly to this reduction, exceeding last year's figures by $70 billion.