Income Tax Lawyers in Lakeport, California
In Lakeport, California, an income tax is imposed on a certain percentage of the income of all individuals and businesses. Typically, income from all sources can be taxed. The federal government has had explicit constitutional power to impose an income tax since 1916, with the passage of the 16th Amendment. This came after the Supreme Court had repeatedly found a federal income tax to be unconstitutional. States, including California, have always been free 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 relatively high income taxes, and a few have none at all. You should consult with a Lakeport, California tax attorney if you don't know what type of tax system your state has.
For years, rumors have circulated that the federal income tax is illegal or unconstitutional. These rumors are false: the federal government has explicit constitutional authority to tax income under the 16th Amendment. Still, "tax protesters" employ some fringe constitutional arguments, none of which have been successful. In Lakeport, California, failing to pay your income tax can, and likely will, result in criminal prosecution.
Income Tax Deductions in Lakeport, California
A tax deduction is a reduction in one's taxable income. It results in less of your income being taxable, which causes a lower tax liability.
This should not be confused with a tax credit, which is simply a reduction in somebody's tax bill. A tax credit will normally reduce your tax liability far more than a tax deduction of the same amount.
Lots of expenses that are common in Lakeport are tax deductible. Federal tax deductions include mortgage interest, union dues, interest paid on mortgages, and others.
If you live in a state that has an income tax, some of these expenses might also be deductible, though that depends on the individual tax laws of California.
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How Can A Lakeport, California Tax Attorney Help?
Income tax laws can get quite complex, especially when large amounts of money from multiple sources are involved. It would not be a bad idea to call a Lakeport, California tax attorney to avoid the consequences of under-paying, and to prevent you from over-paying.