The Vice President of the United States is the second-highest-ranking official in the executive branch of the federal government. While the salary of the Vice President is publicly disclosed, there are also various perks and benefits associated with the office that are not as well-known. In this article, we will explore the salary of the US Vice President and other benefits that come with the position.
The Vice President plays a crucial role in supporting the President and assumes the office of the President if the President is unable to serve. The Vice President also has ceremonial and diplomatic duties, and is often called upon to represent the United States at international events.
Salary of the US Vice President
The salary of the Vice President is $243,000 per year, which is set by Congress. This salary is taxable and is subject to federal income tax. The Vice President also receives a $50,000 expense allowance, which is not taxed. This allowance is intended to cover the costs associated with maintaining an office and staff.
In addition to the salary and expense allowance, the Vice President also receives a number of other benefits, including a $100,000 unvouchered expense account, which can be used to pay for official expenses related to the office of the Vice President. The Vice President also has access to a range of other benefits, including use of a government aircraft, a government vehicle, and a government-funded staff.
Other Perks of the Office
In addition to the salary and benefits mentioned above, the Vice President also receives a number of other perks, including:
- Use of a government-funded residence at Number One Observatory Circle, which is located on the grounds of the United States Naval Observatory in Washington, D.C.
- Access to a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, a gym, and a movie theater
- Use of a government-funded staff, including a chief of staff, a press secretary, and other support staff
- Access to classified information and briefings on national security and other sensitive topics
- Opportunities to travel domestically and internationally, often at government expense
| Benefit | Value |
|---|---|
| Salary | $243,000 per year |
| Expense Allowance | $50,000 per year |
| Unvouchered Expense Account | $100,000 per year |
Key Points
- The salary of the Vice President is $243,000 per year.
- The Vice President receives a $50,000 expense allowance and a $100,000 unvouchered expense account.
- The Vice President has access to a range of benefits, including use of a government-funded residence, amenities, and a staff.
- The Vice President receives opportunities to travel domestically and internationally, often at government expense.
- The Vice President has access to classified information and briefings on national security and other sensitive topics.
History of the Vice President's Salary
The salary of the Vice President has changed over time. Prior to 1978, the Vice President received a salary of $60,000 per year. In 1978, Congress increased the salary to $120,000 per year. The salary was increased again in 1997 to $141,100 per year, and in 2001 to $203,500 per year. The current salary of $243,000 per year was set in 2014.
Criticisms of the Vice President's Benefits
Some have criticized the benefits and perks associated with the office of the Vice President, arguing that they are excessive and not transparent. Others have argued that the benefits are necessary to support the Vice President in carrying out their duties.
In response to these criticisms, it is worth noting that the benefits and perks associated with the office of the Vice President are set by Congress and are intended to support the Vice President in carrying out their duties. Additionally, the Vice President is required to disclose their financial information and is subject to ethics rules and regulations.
What is the salary of the Vice President of the United States?
+The salary of the Vice President of the United States is $243,000 per year.
What benefits does the Vice President receive?
+The Vice President receives a range of benefits, including use of a government-funded residence, amenities, and a staff. The Vice President also receives opportunities to travel domestically and internationally, often at government expense.
Has the salary of the Vice President always been $243,000 per year?
+No, the salary of the Vice President has changed over time. Prior to 1978, the Vice President received a salary of $60,000 per year. The salary has been increased several times since then, with the current salary of $243,000 per year being set in 2014.
In conclusion, the salary and benefits of the Vice President of the United States are set by Congress and are intended to support the Vice President in carrying out their duties. While some have criticized the benefits and perks associated with the office, it is worth noting that they are transparent and subject to ethics rules and regulations.
The Vice President plays a critical role in supporting the President and assumes the office of the President if the President is unable to serve. The benefits and perks associated with the office are designed to support the Vice President in carrying out their duties and to provide a level of comfort and security.