Tax tables or tax charts are very useful when it comes to filing your 2009 tax returns. The tax system is designed so that tax rates vary according to your filing status and the amount of gross income that you received during the 2009 tax year. Your gross income is figured after you subtract your deductions and take any additional tax credits that you may qualify for.


The way that the United States Federal Government operates the tax system is they progressively increase the percentages of federal income taxes that they require as your adjusted gross income increases. As the saying goes – “the more you make the more they take”. In essence, the individuals who earn the least amount of money during the year pay the least in taxes while the folks who earn the most amount of money are subject to a higher tax liability.

Taxes rates range from 10% all the way up to 35% for higher income earners. The amount that you pay in taxes will vary depending on whether you are filing a single or joint return.

If you are single and make less than $8,350 per year, you may not have to pay any federal income tax at all. Single tax filers who earn between $8,350 and $33,950 fall into the 15% bracket for the 2009 year. Individuals who earn a taxable income between $33,950 and $82,250 should expect to pay 25%. If you are single and your taxable income is between $82,250 and $171,550 then you will pay a hefty 28%.

For more information on tax tables and tax rates for married filing jointly, married filing separately, single, and head of household, check out your instruction booklet that came with your income tax form.

What do you plan to do with your tax return this year? Healthy Financial Habits wants to know. We have created a poll located at the bottom right of this page. Here you are able to vote to let us know how you are going to spend your money and also view the poll results.

Author: Greg Jackson