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© 2015 Dwellworks, LLC
Page 19
Discovering the U.S.
Taxes
Taxes in the U.S. are levied at the federal, state, and local levels. These taxes can be income,
payroll, property, sales, capital gains, dividends, imports, estates, and gifts. Different tax
systems within the states may define taxable income separately, but all states do impose this
tax on working individuals. Many deductions and exemptions exist, but these are dependent on
the residing state.
Social Security and Medicare taxes are federal social insurance taxes that are imposed equally
on employers and employees. Social Security amounts to 6.2% of wages and 1.45% of wages
for Medicare, both with maximums. This money, though, can be a refundable tax credit upon
filing an income tax return for the year. Visit the government’s website at www.irs.gov.
Safety and Security
At Home
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Keep doors and windows locked when you are not actively using them
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Avoid sharing personal information over the phone
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Never tell strangers about household routines
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Installing security systems can help increase safety within the home
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If a representative from a public utility company comes to work at your home, ask them
to present proper identification
On the Streets
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Be aware of your surroundings and avoid traveling to unsafe areas at night alone
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Pay attention to personal belongings in large crowds to avoid pick-pocketing
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Keep photocopies of important documents at home in case of theft
In the Car
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While driving, keep your doors locked
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Inside the vehicle, keep packages and personal belongings out of sight or in the trunk
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Tell your children to never accept rides from people they don’t know
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Drive in accordance to those around you, especially in poor weather conditions
Helpful Hint:
Cities and municipalities have their own laws regarding mobile phone
usage while driving. Be sure to check the local laws.