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Governments are designed to protect the population of the country. In return, citizens are expected to fulfill certain responsibilities to improve their nation. These responsibilities are commonly known as civic duties.

These duties can be far ranging. Citizens should engage in civic participation daily. This involves following laws and helping your community. However, civic duty isn’t just about being helpful and patriotic. The government legally requires you to do certain duties. You should make sure you’re well-informed about your responsibilities as a citizen. Here are some of the most significant civic duties.

Paying Taxes

As most people will already be well aware, you’re legally required to pay taxes as a citizen. All citizens need to pay business tax. There are also taxes for owning property or operating a business. Even the things you buy daily have added tax values.

Always make sure you stay on top of your taxes. Failing to fulfill your tax requirements can result in legal action being taken against you. In most cases, your employer will deduct federal and state income tax from your paychecks. If you’re self-employed, you need to handle it yourself or seek the help of an accountant.

Other kinds of tax can be more complicated. If you’re a small business owner, for example, you should search for a tax lawyer to help you out.

Jury Duty

Citizens over the age of 18 without any criminal convictions may be called to serve on a jury. Juries help determine the outcome of a court case. A jury is made up of a panel of fair and impartial citizens.

You may get the call at any time, so be sure to do your research to preparing for jury duty. You’ll usually be given a number to call to find out whether you need to serve. Some people may never be summoned to court, even after being called for jury duty.

Jury duty can be inconvenient for some. You might need to ask your employee for time off, and you may be able to receive pay or compensation while serving. You’re legally required to fulfill this duty, so you can’t ignore it.

Voting

Unlike some civic duties, voting isn’t required by law. However, it is a right given to everyone over the age of 18.

Voting gives all citizens the chance to participate in a democratic society. Voting gives citizens the opportunity to change the direction of the country. You should do your research and vote intelligently to alter the course of the nation for the better.

While many people choose not to exercise their right to vote, you may want to take it more seriously. Even if you’re only one vote, it’s your duty as a citizen to do what you can to improve the nation. Voting for what you believe is best is part of this.

Volunteering

Volunteering to improve your local community is largely considered a civic responsibility. Sacrificing some of your own time for the betterment of your area is part of what being a citizen is about. It might be worth looking for local volunteering opportunities to do your part as a citizen.