Getting Paid: Understanding the U.S. Tax System Getting Paid: Understanding the U.S. Tax System

In order for the government to function, it needs money — and it gets that money by taxing people. Taxes pay for all sorts of government jobs and services.

Federal taxes help fund national responsibilities like the President, Congress, federal judges, and the military. State taxes pay for things like local roads and the governor’s office. County and city taxes help cover the cost of schools, fire departments, and police.

While most people don’t enjoy paying taxes, it’s an important part of living in a society. In this course, we’ll define various types of taxes and explain how they impact you and your income.

In order for the government to function, it needs money — and it gets that money by taxing people. Taxes pay for all sorts of government jobs and services.

Federal taxes help fund national responsibilities like the President, Congress, federal judges, and the military. State taxes pay for things like local roads and the governor’s office. County and city taxes help cover the cost of schools, fire departments, and police.

While most people don’t enjoy paying taxes, it’s an important part of living in a society. In this course, we’ll define various types of taxes and explain how they impact you and your income.