Taxation concepts for cost estimation: Which type of tax is typically assessed on gross production or sales rather than on net income?

Introduction / Context:
Cost estimators must distinguish taxes that depend on income versus those tied to production or sales. This affects cash flows, pricing, and profitability analyses.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Gross earnings here refer to gross sales/production basis, not profits.
• General definitions applied across jurisdictions.

Concept / Approach:
Excise taxes are levies on the production, sale, or consumption of specific goods (e.g., fuels, alcohol). They are assessed on units or value sold/produced, not on net income after expenses.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Identify the base: gross production/sales rather than profit.Map to tax type: excise taxes fit this description.Confirm other taxes target different bases (property value, net income, capital appreciation).

Verification / Alternative check:
Tax guidelines list excise as transaction/commodity-based; income tax is profit-based after deductions.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Property: based on assessed property value. Income: based on net income. Capital gains: based on gain from asset sales.

Common Pitfalls:
Equating sales tax and excise; both are gross-basis but excise targets specific goods and may be unit-based.

Final Answer:
Excise tax