By Doug Whiteman
Taxes can be pretty confusing, especially since the rules are always changing -- including the tax brackets.
Tax brackets put your income into buckets that are taxed at different rates. The brackets are updated every year to keep up with inflation, and the 2017 tax law has shaken them up even more.
Here's what you need to know about tax brackets for 2019 and beyond.
Why do we have tax brackets?
Tax brackets are an integral part of what's referred to as America's progressive tax system. As you earn more money, your income hits thresholds. At each threshold, the income above the line is taxed at a progressively higher rate.
When looking at the brackets, it's essential to remember that the income triggering each tax rate is your adjusted gross income, not the figure on your W-2.
In other words, your ultimate tax bill is based on your wages plus other income (such as from investing), minus deductions and credits.
The complexity has long resulted in calls for a simpler income tax system, such as a flat tax rate.
What are the current tax brackets?
These are the brackets for the taxes you pay in 2019, on income earned in 2018.
| Income | Tax rate |
|---|---|
| Up to $9,700 | 10% |
| $9,701 to $39,475 | 12% |
| $39,476 to $84,200 | 22% |
| $84,201 to $160,725 | 24% |
| $160,726 to $204,100 | 32% |
| $204,101 to $510,300 | 35% |
| Over $510,300 | 37% |
| Income | Tax rate |
|---|---|
| Up to $19,400 | 10% |
| $19,401 to $78,950 | 12% |
| $78,951 to $168,400 | 22% |
| $168,401 to $321,450 | 24% |
| $321,451 to $408,200 | 32% |
| $408,201 to $612,350 | 35% |
| Over $612,350 | 37% |
What does that all mean?
Tax brackets can be very confusing.
Here's how the tax brackets work: If you file as a single and make $9,000, your tax rate is 10%. If you earn $30,000, your first $9,700 is taxed at 10%, while the remaining $20,300 carries a 12% tax. And so on.
As you make more money, you'll want to take steps to reduce your taxable income and drop down into a lower tax bracket. Directing some of your earnings into an individual retirement account (IRA) might do this.
You may need to speak with an accountant or tax professional, such as at the nearest H&R Block office.
Esther Trattner