Which term describes a tax imposed on businesses, rather than directly on consumers?

• A. Indirect tax
• B. Direct tax
• C. No taxation without representation
• D. Proclamation Line

Answer: (A)

Indirect taxes are taxes added to goods and services and collected from businesses at the point of sale, with the economic burden typically passed on to consumers through higher prices. When a government imposes such a tax, the business handles the collection and remittance, but the price the shopper pays includes that tax, so the public ultimately bears the cost. This fits the description of a tax imposed on businesses rather than directly on consumers.

In contrast, a direct tax is paid directly by individuals or organizations on income, profits, property, or similar measures, not through the sale of goods. The other options refer to political principles or historical boundaries rather than a type of tax.