income tax

American  

noun

1. a tax levied on incomes, especially an annual government tax on personal incomes.

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income tax British  

noun

1. a personal tax, usually progressive, levied on annual income subject to certain deductions

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Etymology

Origin of income tax

First recorded in 1790–1800

Example Sentences

In contrast, withdrawing $10,000 from an IRA would trigger income tax based on your bracket — roughly $1,200 in a 12% tax bracket, $2,200 in a 22% bracket, or $2,400 in a 24% bracket.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 6, 2026

Since 2019, Welsh ministers have had the ability to raise or lower the three rates of income tax in Wales but have never done so.

From BBC • Mar. 30, 2026

Once they hit 65 years old, they can withdraw their money 100% tax free for medical care; if they withdraw for any other reason, they pay standard income tax.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

Until now, Washington hasn’t had any state income tax.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 30, 2026

I know we went to church to borrow emergency money once, and someone there showed Papa how to do his income tax.

From "March Forward, Girl" by Melba Pattillo Beals