2010 Federal Revenue Sources: a surprising amount came from payroll taxes.

According to the Office of Management and Budget, Fiscal Year 2010 Federal Revenues break down as follows.  The graph is courtesy of factcheck.org.  These numbers can be found on Table 2.1 at the OMB. 

Of particular note is the fact that Payroll Taxes (which are paid by employers and employees) brought in as much revenue (40.0%) as Individual Income Taxes (41.5%).  Corporate Income taxes brought in 8.9% and the Estate & Gift tax brought in 0.9% (it is part of the "other" category).  By way of contrast, in 2000, the Individual Income Taxes brought in 50% and Payroll Taxes brought in 32%.  See Table 2.1. 

Listen carefully to the upcoming tax debates in Congress and see how many times Payroll taxes are discussed.  Even though Payroll Taxes tie as the single largest revenue producer for the Federal government, chances are low that meaningful discussion or reform will occur.