Edith Hejberg
The national debt increases by roughly $55,000 every second
It might sound like satire, but it’s real: the U.S. Treasury is accepting donations to reduce the national debt, and you can send money via PayPal, Venmo, or old-fashioned check.
The National Debt Stands at $36.7 Trillion
As of now, the U.S. national debt is a jaw-dropping $36.7 trillion. That’s about $110,000 per American citizen and counting.
The Internet Finds Out, Chaos Ensues
A tweet from NPR’s Jack Corbett brought the program to wider attention: “You can Venmo the United States to help pay off the national debt.” Cue confusion, mockery, and disbelief online.
How to Make a Debt Donation
Donations are accepted through pay.gov, where you can give via credit card, bank account, or digital wallet. You can even mail a check, if you’re feeling nostalgic.
Official and Totally Legal
According to the U.S. Code, the Treasury is allowed to accept voluntary “gifts to reduce the public debt.” It’s real, official, and tax-deductible, but don’t expect a thank-you gift.
The Clock is Ticking, Fast
The national debt increases by roughly $55,000 every second. By the time you finish reading this slide, it’s already up another half a million.
Your Donation Won’t Move the Needle
Even if you maxed out the donation limit of $999,999.99, the debt would outpace you in under 20 seconds. One Axios reporter tested the process—it took 80 seconds, during which the debt rose by over $4 million.
Public Reaction: “This Can’t Be Real”
Social media users were stunned. One person wrote, “Public debt is such a lost cause, it’s going to infinity.” Others joked it was the most American thing ever.
Symbolic Giving or Government Gimmick?
Experts agree these donations won’t meaningfully reduce debt, but some say the gesture could spark conversations about spending, responsibility, and fiscal education.
Want to Try It? Here’s Where to Go
Curious? Head to pay.gov and search “Gift to Reduce the Public Debt.” You won’t fix the budget crisis, but you might get bragging rights at your next dinner party.
