The protection of an individual is comprehensive and goes well beyond surrounding the individual with well-armed agents. As part of our mission of preventing an incident before it occurs, we rely on meticulous advance work and threat assessments to identify potential risks to protectees.

We play a critical role in protecting U.S. and visiting world leaders, safeguarding U.S. elections through protection of candidates and nominees, and ensuring the security of key facilities and major, national-level events. Our protective mission dates back to 1901, after the assassination of President William McKinley.

Today, the Secret Service's mission is two-fold: protection of the president, vice president and others; and investigations into crimes against the financial infrastructure of the United States. Who is the Secret Service authorized to protect? By law, the Secret Service is authorized to protect:

Under 18 U.S.C.' 3056(a)(7), "[m]ajor Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates," as identified by the Secretary of Homeland Security, are eligible for Secret Service protection. Title 18 U.S.C.' 3056(a)(7) authorizes the U.S. Secret Service to provide protection for major Presidential and Vice Presidential candidates:

Protection We ensure the safety of the president, the vice president, their families, the White House, the vice president’s residence, visiting foreign heads of state, former United States presidents and their spouses, and events of national significance.

We have an integrated mission of protection and investigations to ensure the safety and security of our protectees, key locations, and events of national significance. We also protect the integrity of our currency and investigate crimes against the U.S. financial system committed by criminals around the world and in cyberspace.

Our Canine Explosive Detection Unit provides a safe and secure environment for individuals and locations protected by the Secret Service. This coverage includes security sweeps, bomb threats and suspicious packages, as well as vehicle and other material examinations.

Our goal is to provide a safe and secure environment for Secret Service protectees, other dignitaries, the event participants and the general public.

Recognized for the Secret Service’s central role in the protection of both the nation’s leaders and the financial and critical infrastructure of the United States, the Secret Service contributes to the Department of Homeland Security’s common mission of …

The first installment of $15,000 will be paid following successful completion of Secret Service Criminal Investigator training. A second installment of $10,000 will be paid following one year of service post training and an acceptable performance rating.