Taxable Income: A Comprehensive Guide to Its Legal Definition

Definition & Meaning

Taxable income is the amount of income that is subject to taxation by the federal government. It is calculated by taking your gross income and subtracting specific deductions allowed by the Internal Revenue Code. These deductions can include personal exemptions and the standard deduction, depending on whether you choose to itemize your deductions or not.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A single taxpayer has a gross income of $50,000. They choose the standard deduction of $12,550. Their taxable income would be $37,450 ($50,000 - $12,550).

Example 2: A married couple with a gross income of $100,000 and two dependents decides to itemize their deductions, which total $30,000. Their taxable income would be $70,000 ($100,000 - $30,000). (hypothetical example)

What to do if this term applies to you

If you need to determine your taxable income, start by gathering all sources of income and any potential deductions. You may choose to use tax preparation software or consult a tax professional for assistance. Additionally, consider using legal form templates from US Legal Forms to help you prepare your tax documents accurately. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal or tax advice is recommended.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Gross income is the total income earned before any deductions, while taxable income is what remains after allowable deductions are subtracted from gross income.