Revenue Neutral: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Meaning

Definition & Meaning

The term revenue neutral refers to tax law changes that do not affect the total revenue collected by the government. In essence, a tax proposal is considered revenue neutral if it neither increases nor decreases the overall tax revenue when compared to existing laws. For example, a revenue neutral change might lower taxes for individuals while increasing taxes for corporations, balancing the overall revenue impact.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

One example of a revenue neutral tax change is the Tax Reform Act of 1986, which included provisions that increased revenue from certain sources while decreasing it from others, ensuring that the overall revenue remained unchanged.

(hypothetical example) A state may propose a tax plan that lowers income taxes for small businesses while simultaneously increasing sales taxes, aiming to keep the total revenue stable.

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Revenue Neutral Approach
California Often uses revenue neutrality in budget proposals.
Texas Focuses on property tax adjustments to maintain neutrality.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary, and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Tax Increase A rise in the amount of tax owed. Revenue neutral does not involve an overall tax increase.
Tax Decrease A reduction in the amount of tax owed. Revenue neutral may involve decreases offset by increases elsewhere.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering a tax proposal or are affected by changes in tax law, it's essential to understand how revenue neutrality may impact you. You can explore US Legal Forms for ready-to-use legal templates that can assist you in navigating tax-related issues. If your situation is complex, consulting with a legal professional may be necessary to ensure compliance and understanding.

Quick facts

  • Revenue neutrality ensures total tax revenue remains stable.
  • Changes may involve shifting tax burdens between individuals and corporations.
  • Commonly referenced in tax reform legislation.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

It refers to tax changes that do not affect the overall revenue collected by the government.