Ricky and Lucy Are Debating Several Types of Taxes

question 47

Essay

Ricky and Lucy are debating several types of taxes. Their debate has focused on the different types of tax rate structures and whether they are "fair." Please define each tax rate structure, provide examples of each structure, and discuss how each structure may be viewed with respect to vertical equity.

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Definitions:

Fixed Manufacturing Overhead Cost

Overhead costs related to manufacturing that remain constant regardless of the level of production, such as factory rent and salaries of supervisors.

Variable Manufacturing Overhead

Costs in manufacturing that change with the level of production output, like utilities or raw materials.

Direct Labor-Hours

The total hours worked by employees who are directly involved in the production of goods or services.

Predetermined Overhead Rate

A predetermined overhead rate is an estimated charge per unit of activity that is used to allocate indirect costs to products or services.