In Los Angeles, California, an income tax is imposed on a certain percentage of the income of all individuals and businesses. Typically, income from all sources may be taxed. The federal government has had explicit constitutional authority to impose an income tax since 1916, with the passage of the 16th Amendment. This came after the Supreme Court had consistently found a federal income tax to be unconstitutional. States, including California, have always been allowed to impose whatever type of income tax they liked.
While the federal government levies an income tax against every person and corporation in the U.S., the income taxes imposed by the states vary widely. Some states have fairly high income taxes, and a few have none at all. You should consult with a Los Angeles, California tax Lawyer if you don't know what type of tax system your state has.
Income Tax Deductions in Los Angeles, California
A tax deduction is a reduction in the portion of a person's income that is taxable, resulting in a reduced tax liability. For example, suppose your income tax rate is 10%, and you had ,000 in income last year. If you received a ,000 tax deduction, your taxable income would be ,000, and you would have to pay 10% on that. So, it would lower your tax liability from to .
There is also something called a tax credit, which is treated as a partial payment of the income tax. A tax credit almost always results in a reduced tax bill than a reduction of the same amount.
Many common expenses in Los Angeles can be deducted from your taxable income. They include mortgage interest, charitable contributions (if property documented, of course), the price of tax advice, union dues, and many others.
How Can A Los Angeles, California Tax Attorney Help?
Income tax laws are notoriously complex. If you reside in Los Angeles, California and run into any type of tax problems, including an audit or wage garnishment, a local tax Lawyer would almost certainly be able to help.