The U.S. President is one of the most influential persons in the world. Along with unprecedented burdens, a fantastic financial package is also offered with the office. This goes as far as incredibly high annual salaries to all kinds of allowances, perks, and other emoluments created solely to support the demands of the office. Even after the tenure, the former Presidents are still active enough to enjoy these material benefits. This pay reflects the high-risk exposure and massive responsibility accorded to the role, presumably for the President's focus on effectively leading the nation.
Salary
According to the United States Code, the President of the United States earns an annual salary of $400,000, i.e., Rs. 3.37 Cr. This amount has been unchanged since 2001 and is paid every month. Although the yearly remuneration appears humongous compared to an average American, it is adjusted for inflation and historical presidential remuneration and remains rather modest. It is a package of financial costs that represents the huge burden of responsibility in the role to ensure that the president can concentrate on leading the nation without worrying about all the expenses.
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Allowances and perks
Above all, there are many allowances and benefits the president of the United States gets apart from the base salary. They include a non-taxable Expense Allowance $50 000 per year for personal and official business, a Travel Account of $100 000 per year meant for travel expenses money for the president and their staff, an Entertainment Budget which is $19 000 per year meant for hosting foreign dignitaries, state dinners and other official events. In addition to this, there is a Redecoration Allowance of $100,000 in case the White House needs redecorating after the assumption of office. All these benefits ensure the President is well-supported in the duties.
Housing and security
The President and their family stay in the White House with all the costs of housing, dining, and maintenance fully covered. It, thus becomes home as well as an office, offering a safe and comfortable ambience. Moreover, the President receives round-the-clock security protection to ensure safety both for him and for his family. This elaborate security detail includes the Secret Service, an outfit responsible for protecting the President during tours or outings. Such arrangements allow the President to focus on their mandate without much care for their personal safety or household logistics.
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Post-presidency benefits
Once an ex-president leaves the office, he or she gets an annual pension set today at over $200,000, adjusted annually for inflation; he or she is provided with office space and travel funds; and lifetime Secret Service protection. Many former Presidents continue to profit significantly from their time out of the presidency by writing memoirs, giving speeches, and signing media deals.
Presidents' salaries over the years
Historically, presidential salaries have fluctuated with inflation and adjustments by Congress. When George Washington took office in 1789, he earned $25,000 annually, which would be equivalent to around $895,741 today. Over the years, the salary increased, reaching $200,000 in 1969, and was doubled to $400,000 in 2001.