Presidential bill
10 surprising things U.S. presidents actually pay for themselves!
Image: Allef Vinicius
You might think that once someone becomes president, the wallet goes into permanent retirement and everything becomes magically gratis. Think again. U.S. presidents pay for quite a few things out of pocket , and some will definitely surprise you. Here are 10 expenses that even the most powerful person in the country cannot avoid. Which one shocks you the most?
1
Groceries
Sure, the kitchen is massive, and the chef is part of the deal. But when a new First Family moves into the White House, the fridge is not stocked. The President and their family pay for their own food, just like the rest of us. Former First Lady Michelle Obama confirmed it herself. No rent, sure, but groceries are their responsibility. Fair is fair, right?
2
Interior decorations
The White House has its official historic look, but every family wants to make it feel like home. Artwork, new drapes, or a different couch are all allowed, but none of it goes on the government’s tab. If the First Family wants it, they buy it.
3
Personal homes
Even though 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is home base for four or eight years, the president still owns their personal home . All the upkeep, bills, and maintenance back home stay their responsibility.
4
Designer clothing
You might assume designers line up to dress presidents and first ladies for free. Not so. Any clothing they wear, whether off the rack or high fashion, comes out of their own funds . Sometimes designers lend outfits, but any fashion bills are never part of the White House budget.
5
Dry cleaning
And speaking of clothing, special garments don’t clean themselves. While the White House has its own laundry, t he president and family pay for dry cleaning of personal items . Those designer suits and gowns come with a personal laundry tab.
6
Hairstylists
Just like designer clothes, everything related to the First Family’s personal grooming is billed to them . When you’re photographed daily, hair matters. But those stylists? They’re not government employees. Every trim, blowout, and touch-up is paid for privately by the First Family.
7
Vacations and accommodations
Yes, even presidents need a break. When the First Family travels on personal vacations, they foot the bill for their own lodging, food, and fun. Transport and security are covered, but hotels, dinners, and souvenirs? That’s on them.
8
Private events outside the White House
Presidents don’t exactly get to do whatever they please, but if they plan a private dinner or event away from official grounds , they’re responsible for the costs. No taxpayer-funded parties here.
9
Private staff
On a similar note, whenever extra waiters, musicians, or planners for a private gathering in the White House are needed, those staff members are hired and paid by the First Family directly. Throwing a soiree at the Executive Mansion might sound glamorous, but the bill lands squarely in their own inbox.
10
Gifts for other dignitaries
Diplomatic gifts are a tradition, and there’s even a special office that helps choose the perfect item for each foreign leader. Depending on the gift and especially if it’s a personal one, the President may have to pay for it themselves. As long as it is diplomatic, the Government pays for it, but if the gift is based on a personal relationship, that comes out of the Chief’s pocket.
