In Petal, Mississippi, the income tax is a tax imposed on money received (income) during a certain set time period. Under federal law, and the laws of most states, income from any source can be taxed. The federal government imposes an income tax on all persons and entities present in the United States. The power to tax incomes was granted to the federal government in 1913 with the ratification of the 16th Amendment to the Constitution. Before that time, the Supreme Court had found a federal income tax unconstitutional, prompting the passage of the amendment. Of course, individual states, including Mississippi, were free to impose income taxes as they saw fit.

Everybody in the United States must pay the federal income tax. However, you only have to pay the state income tax of the state in which you reside. You should speak with an accountant or tax lawyer in Petal, Mississippi if you aren't clear about what system your state has.

Income Tax Deductions in Petal, Mississippi

A tax deduction is simply a reduction in the portion of a person's income which is taxable. For example, if someone makes ,000 per year, and gets a ,000 tax deduction, their taxable income is ,000.

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 lower tax bill than a deduction of the same amount.

Many common expenses in Petal can be deducted, in whole or in part, from your taxable income. Federal tax deductions include charitable donations, union dues, interest paid on a mortgage, and state and local taxes.

How Can A Petal, Mississippi Tax Attorney Help?

Income tax laws can get pretty complex. If you are in Petal, Mississippi and have any questions about your taxes, you should consult with an accountant or local tax Attorney to avoid tax problems, such as audit or wage garnishment.