The U.S. government posted a $3 billion surplus in January -- the first monthly surplus since 2008 -- aided by last-minute "fiscal cliff" deal investors trying to beat higher taxes in 2013 and by the expiration of the payroll tax cut.

In January, federal government revenue totaled $272.2 billion and expenses totaled $269.3 billion.

The U.S. government posted a $1.1 trillion deficit for fiscal 2012, which ended Sept. 30, 2012.

Details to follow.

U.S.