Every year, Congress is required by law to pass a budget and then divvy up your tax dollars accordingly. Of course, with Congress it's never that easy; nearly every year they miss many of their legally bound due dates. This series of dismissed deadlines is officially known as the appropriations process, and we've mapped it out just for you. Up top, the process is outlined as it's supposed to happen, and down below is the story of what Congress has actually done. (Hint: They're not the same.) And at the bottom of this page, we track the 12 appropriation bills as they move through the House and Senate. The process is ongoing, so check back often and we'll keep you updated.

* Note that the Continuing Resolution, signed into law on September 28, now takes the place of these bills for up to six months.