Which City Has the Nation’s Highest Sales Tax Rate?
Chicago is known as the Windy city and for good reason. However, thanks to a recent vote by Cook County commissioners, where Chicago calls home, it could now be called the tax city. That’s because Chicago, which already had a sales tax rate of 9.25 percent is jumping into the double digits after county commissioners voted to raise the sales tax rate by 1 percent, to a whopping 10.25 percent, which is the highest city rate in the entire country.
The new sales tax rate will take effect on January 1 of next year, and is expected to give the sales tax in the county a $474 million boost every year. Officials said they passed the increase proposal because they need the additional funds to help fix the pension system for Cook County employees. According to Cook County officials, there is already a shortage in the retirement of about $6.5 billion and the problem is getting worse every year, as it is reportedly increasing by $360 million annually.
With the increase, Chicago will now pass four counties in Alabama that all had sales tax rates of 10 percent, to become the city with the highest rate. Time will tell if the increased sales tax income will be enough to make a difference in the pension shortfall, but Chicago can now claim it’s number ranking for a rather dubious distinction.
Like it or Not, Now Is the Time to Think About Taxes
There are still several days before we officially celebrate Christmas, which means people still have plenty to do, including finding those important last-minute gifts. However, if you are done with your shopping, maybe you can put Christmas aside for a moment and focus on taxes. Taxes are probably the last thing you want to think…
Deutsche Being Bank Accused of Tax Fraud By Federal Prosecutors
The U.S. has been increasingly going after foreign financial institutions that try to skimp on taxes. The latest move from the IRS is an aggressive lawsuit against Deutsche Bank, which the federal tax agency claims owes the U.S. somewhere in the neighborhood of $190 million in overdue taxes, penalties and interest. However, if you ask…
Looking to Grow Your Firm? Consider GROCO
There are hundreds of tax and accounting firms all over the country, including right here in the Bay Area. These firms come in all levels of size and expertise. At GROCO, we are always looking to grow our business and we know that many, if not all, companies are looking to do the same. If…
Is Corporate America Getting Away With Too Little Tax?
It’s an argument that’s all too common in the business world: big multi-national companies don’t pay their fair share of taxes. A new study will only serve to add more fuel to the fire, as according to its findings, seven of the 30 biggest companies in the United States reportedly paid more to their CEOs…