Canada’s federal government recorded $534.5 billion in expenses during 2024.
The largest category was grants at $172 billion. These include transfers to other governments and organizations. Social benefits followed at $147.1 billion.
Federal employee compensation accounted for $63 billion, while interest on government debt reached $50.1 billion. Goods, services, subsidies, capital consumption and other expenses made up the remainder.
This is a breakdown of federal spending, not a literal accounting of each tax dollar. Federal expenses also draw upon non-tax revenue and borrowing.
Verified Data
Category | Per $100 | Total |
|---|---|---|
Grants | $32.18 | $172.0B |
Social benefits | $27.51 | $147.1B |
Federal employees | $11.79 | $63.0B |
Debt interest | $9.37 | $50.1B |
Other expenses | $7.54 | $40.3B |
Goods and services | $7.12 | $38.1B |
Capital consumption | $2.76 | $14.8B |
Subsidies | $1.72 | $9.2B |
Accuracy Note
The 2024 figures are preliminary. Displayed amounts total $99.99 because of rounding. Capital consumption is derived from the difference between the table’s gross and net operating balances.