Independent agencies- called "independent" because they are not part of the Cabinet. Three types: * Executive agencies- part of a government department that is treated as managerially and budgetarily separate in order to carry out some part of the executive functions * Government corporations- permanent or semi-permanent organization in the machinery of government that is responsible for the oversight and administration of specific functions, such as an intelligence agency. There is a notable variety of types of agency. Although usage differs, a government agency is normally distinct both from a Department or Ministry, and other types of public body established by government. The functions of an agency are normally executive in character since different types of organization (such as commissions) are normally used for advisory functions, but this distinction is often blurred in practice. * Regulatory commissions- federal agencies that impose regulations but are free of political influence.

Ex. Nuclear Regulatory Commission