I know this might seem brain dead simple to some people, but I'm having trouble grasping the full picture. (I live in Canada as well, so I don't know if our systems are any different. I believe your IRS is more or less exactly the same thing as our CRA.)
Here's what I don't understand, why do they force you to pay into income tax all-year round if they just give it back to you at the end of the tax season? Am I missing something? Why do some people "pay in" and others receive money back? What is the point in collecting it if they just give it back to you?
Clearly I'm missing something. Thanks.