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Lesson Transcript

Hi everyone, I'm Alisha.
In the United States, federal income taxes–and most state income taxes–are due on April 15th. This is not a holiday, of course, but it's a major event, nonetheless. Throughout the nation, you'll see people scrambling to get their tax forms in the mail before midnight on April 15th. Technically, federal income taxes are only due on this day if you owe the federal government money.
The first income tax in the United States was imposed to pay for a war. Do you know which war it was imposed to pay for?
We’ll show you the answer at the end of this video.
In the United States, the beginning of tax season generally starts in February. Tax season is that time of year when people start bringing their taxes into preparers to get them ready to send into the federal government. US citizens have the option of using a tax preparer or an accountant–usually a much more expensive option–to prepare their taxes. There are stiff penalties charged if taxes are underpaid or not paid at all.
On April 15th of every year, the United States post office stays open until midnight to make sure that people have every possible opportunity to get their taxes in the mail before the deadline. Those individuals who don't owe any tax to the government don't have to make this deadline. In addition to sending in tax forms, payment is due on or before April 15th of every year, as well. Every year around tax time, you see the parking lots of tax preparation agencies overflowing with cars.
One tradition in the United States relating to tax time is holding sales at various businesses. People who get tax returns oftentimes spend the money on something for themselves and, to capitalize on this, businesses often offer discounts on their items during this time of year. Some tax-preparation agencies even allow people to take out a loan of the same amount as their anticipated tax refund. It's a busy time of year for the IRS and businesses alike.
Though it has been controversial, the 16th Amendment to the United States Constitution gives the US government the authority to levy income taxes. It has been contested, but has held up to all challenges.
And now here's the answer to the quiz.
Do you know for which war the first income tax was imposed?
The first income taxes in the United States were imposed during the Civil War. The constitutional amendment that gives the federal government the authority to collect income taxes was actually passed in 1913.
How was this lesson? Did you learn something interesting?
Is there a special day for paying taxes in your country?
Please leave a comment at EnglishClass101.com
Until next time!

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