DOGE Finds 4.6 Million Government Credit Cards, Wants to Simplify Program

Key Takeaways:

• DOGE aims to simplify the government-issued credit card program.
• Federal agencies spent $40 billion via 4.6 million credit cards in 2024.
• The Departments of Veterans Affairs and Defense were the top spenders.
• GSA reported $506 million in refunds earned by agencies.
• Elon Musk leads President Trump’s panel to reduce government waste.

DOGE Initiates Overhaul of Federal Credit Card Program

The Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) announced on Tuesday its plans to simplify and reduce administrative costs associated with the government’s credit card program. Last year, the program accounted for 4.6 million active cards and processed 90 million unique transactions totaling $40 billion.

Massive Federal Spending Highlighted

According to DOGE, the average transaction amount was $441. The General Services Administration (GSA) outlined that for Fiscal Year 2024, the “total program spend” reached $39.7 billion, and agencies and organizations earned $506 million in refunds.

Top-Spending Departments Identified

The Department of Veterans Affairs led federal agencies in spending, with expenditures exceeding $17.3 billion. The Defense Department followed closely with over $11.2 billion spent. Both departments represent a significant portion of the total federal credit card usage.

Other notable spenders included the Departments of Justice and Homeland Security, each recording over $1 billion in expenditures. Combined, small agencies and organizations reported spending over $2.3 billion.

Efforts to Enhance Transparency and Efficiency

DOGE released a breakdown of departmental and agency spending, including transaction amounts and the number of active accounts. Agencies such as the National Science Foundation, Environmental Protection Agency, and Department of the Interior were among those listed in the report. By providing these details, DOGE aims to increase transparency and identify areas where administrative costs can be reduced.

Ongoing Audits of Federal Agencies

The announcement comes as DOGE continues to audit federal agencies, including the Social Security Administration and the Internal Revenue Service. These audits are part of a broader effort to root out inefficiencies and ensure responsible use of taxpayer funds.

Presidential Advisory Panel’s Role in Reducing Waste

President Donald Trump’s advisory panel, led by entrepreneur Elon Musk, has been tasked with eliminating government waste, fraud, and abuse. The panel’s involvement underscores the administration’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and efficient government operations.

Looking Ahead

DOGE’s initiative to streamline the government-issued credit card program represents a significant step toward reducing unnecessary spending. As audits progress and reforms are implemented, the federal government aims to enhance efficiency and accountability across all departments and agencies.