As former President of the USA, Barack Obama is one of the most well known people in the world. 

Having worked for so long under such intense scrutiny, it is likely to have come as a relief when the Obamas were able to step out of the limelight slightly. 

Of course, life after presidency is hardly "normal" and former Presidents remain very much in the public eye.

As a result they remain huge security risks, so the Former Presidents Act was introduced in 1958 to ensure their ongoing safety. 

Here's what you need to know about Barack Obama's post-presidency package...

What is the Former Presidents Act?

The Former President Act is a US law that provides those who have served as President of the USA with several lifetime benefits. 

Under the act, former Presidents receive: 

  • lifetime Secret Service protection
  • pension
  • staff
  • office expenses
  • medical care
  • health insurance

Former Presidents can receive a pension of $219,200 per year as of 2020, beginning immediately after a President leaves office. 

That's the equivalent to around £162,233. 

Meanwhile, private office staff can be hired and paid for under the act, however the amount that these staff can be paid is capped. 

Does Barack Obama have lifetime Secret Service protection?

Yes, Barack and Michelle Obama, like all former presidents and their spouses, are entitled to lifetime SS protection. 

This policy was first introduced in 1958, however in 1994 it was reduced to 10 years protection for all former presidents. 

Barack Obama reversed this policy during his Presidency however, reintroducing lifetime secret service protection for all former presidents.