Exploring the Types of Taxes in the United States

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This educational video provides a comprehensive overview of the United States tax system, breaking down revenue collection across three main levels of government: federal, state, and local. Hosted by Caroline, the lesson begins by connecting the abstract concept of taxation to the tangible reality of a paycheck stub, explaining how tax dollars fund essential services ranging from NASA space missions to local libraries. It demystifies the complex web of deductions that most citizens encounter, such as Social Security and Medicare, while also introducing broader economic concepts like graduated income tax rates. The content explores a wide variety of specific tax types, distinguishing between those levied on income, consumption, and property. Key topics include the federal income tax structure, capital gains, corporate taxes, tariffs on imported goods, and excise taxes on specific products like gasoline. It further differentiates how state governments rely on sales and income taxes, whereas local municipalities primarily depend on property taxes to fund community services. The video also touches on modern revenue streams like tolls and lodging taxes. Beyond the technical definitions, the video offers high educational value for civics and financial literacy curriculums. It engages students with a segment on "weird taxes"—such as New York's tax on sliced bagels or Kansas's hot air balloon tax—to illustrate how tax laws can be specific and sometimes quirky. By the end, students gain a clear understanding of civic responsibility and the financial mechanisms that support public infrastructure, making this an excellent resource for introduction to economics or government classes.