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Kid's US Finance & Tax Guide
9. The IRS and the Tax Return/Tax Brackets
9. The IRS and the Tax Return Illustration
Syllabus Slides

Tax Brackets

01.The Progressive Tax Ladder

In the United States, we use a progressive tax system. This means that people who earn more money pay a higher tax rate than people who earn less. It's designed to be fair so that families struggling to buy groceries don't have to pay as high a percentage as wealthy executives.

02.Tax Brackets Explained

Income is divided into steps or brackets. In 2026, the first bracket is taxed at 10%, the next at 12%, then 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and the highest is 37%. As your income climbs the ladder, only the money in the higher brackets is taxed at the higher rate.

03.Fair Share

This bracket system ensures that everyone contributes according to their ability, supporting the community while keeping the burden balanced.