Navigating Federal Spending Data with the USAspending API

For organizations and individuals interested in tracking federal spending, the USAspending API offers a comprehensive and accessible way to retrieve detailed data. This guide will explore the key functionalities of the USAspending API, how to get started, and practical examples to help you leverage this powerful tool.

Overview of the USAspending API

The USAspending API provides programmatic access to federal spending data. It supports various endpoints, each designed to return specific types of information. Key features of this API include:

• GET and POST Requests: Supports both GET requests for specific records and POST requests for advanced filtering.
• Detailed Spending Data: Access to detailed financial information, including obligations, awards, and budgetary resources.
• No Authorization Required: The API does not currently require any authorization for access.

Getting Started with the USAspending API

Understanding Endpoints

Endpoints are the specific paths used to request data from the API. Each endpoint corresponds to a particular type of data, such as agency details, award information, or spending summaries.

Common Request Methods

• GET Requests: Used to retrieve specific records with known identifiers.
• POST Requests: Used for more advanced filtering and retrieving data based on complex queries.

Example Endpoints

Here are some commonly used endpoints and their descriptions:

Example Requests

Example 1: Basic GET Request

To retrieve information about a specific agency using its top-tier agency code, use the following GET request:

Request URL:

https://api.usaspending.gov/api/v2/agency/123/

Response (JSON Output):

{
  "agency_code": 123,
  "agency_name": "Department of Example",
  "agency_overview": "Overview information about the agency.",
  ...
}

Example 2: Advanced POST Request

To perform a more complex search for spending by award using various filters, use the following POST request:

Request URL:

https://api.usaspending.gov/api/v2/search/spending_by_award/

Request Body:

{
  "filters": {
       "award_type_codes": ["A", "B"],
       "agencies": [
            {
                 "type": "awarding",
                 "tier": "toptier",
                 "name": "Example Agency"
            }
       ],
       "recipient_locations": [650597],
       "place_of_performance_scope": "domestic",
       "award_amounts": [
              {
                  "lower_bound": 1000000.00,
                  "upper_bound": 5000000.00

              }
       ]
  },
  "fields": ["Award ID", "Recipient Name", "Award Amount"],
  "sort": "Award Amount",
  "order": "desc"
}

Response (JSON Output):

{
  "results": [
    {
      "Award ID": "12345",
      "Recipient Name": "Example Recipient",
      "Award Amount": 3000000.00
    },
    ...
  ]
}

Conclusion

The USAspending API is a valuable resource for accessing detailed federal spending data. By understanding the various endpoints and how to structure your requests, you can efficiently retrieve the information you need. Whether you are conducting research, analyzing government spending, or preparing for a procurement opportunity, the USAspending API provides the tools to support your efforts.

Stay tuned to our blog for more insights and guides on leveraging technology to streamline your business processes!