This discussion delves into whether income tax should be classified as an expenditure. Some argue it's an expenditure because it's a mandatory payment when income is generated, while others contend it's an appropriation of profit, as it's only paid when profits exist. The debate considers the nature of expenses versus profit allocation.
I think no and yes, 1) No, as you pay tax only when you have profit/income. if you don't have any profit then you won't pay. but expense has to incur whether you have profit or loss. we can say like appropriation of profit 2) yes, it is nature of expense as you have to pay to govt when you have a profit. I mean to say if you have profit then it will be an expense to you.
I agree that, in general, tax is payable only when there are profits but loss can be carried forward and future tax can be adjusted against such loss. In that case, how do we perceive tax?
I think income tax is an appropriation of profit. Correct me if I am missing anything.