Number: RS20645
Title: Recent Changes in Federal Debt and its Major Components
Authors: Philip D. Winters, Government and Finance Division 
Abstract: The government had surpluses in each of the four years 1998 through 2001. Over those years, the surpluses reduced federal debt held by the public, one of two components of total federal debt, by $453 billion. Debt held by government accounts, the other component of total federal debt, grew by $853 billion over the same four years. Total federal debt, the combination of the two components, increased by $401 billion during the period. Annual change in debt held by government accounts is not affected by the governments overall surplus or deficit. It is determined by law and government accounting practices.
Pages: 5
Date: November 13, 2002