BASIC PRINCIPLES OF TAX OPTIMIZATION AND CURRENT METHODS OF CALCULATING THE COMPANY’S TAX BURDEN

Abstract

Objective. In modern conditions of economic development and the strengthening of the role of the tax system in the formation of the revenue side of the state budget, the problem of tax optimization is becoming particularly relevant for business entities. The tax burden is one of the key factors determining the financial performance of organizations, their level of competitiveness and investment attractiveness, which necessitates the search for effective and at the same time legitimate ways to reduce the tax burden. Materials and Methods. The paper examines the theoretical and practical aspects of determining the tax burden of companies, analyzes the main domestic methods of calculating it, proposed by M. N. Kreinina, E. A. Kirova and M. I. Litvin, reveals their features, advantages and limitations in terms of completeness of accounting for tax liabilities and the impact of taxes on the financial result of the enterprise. Additionally, foreign approaches to assessing the tax burden used in international practice are highlighted, which makes it possible to expand analytical capabilities and ensure comparability of indicators. Results. Considerable attention is paid to the principles of tax optimization, including legality, economic validity, consistency, transparency, acceptable risk level and an integrated approach, which form the basis of a correct and sustainable tax policy of the organization. The main elements and types of tax optimization are considered, depending on the type of tax, type of activity, taxpayer category and time horizon of planning, and a distinction is made between legitimate and illegal strategies for minimizing tax liabilities. Conclusion. It is concluded that rational tax optimization allows enterprises to reduce their tax burden within the framework of current legislation, minimize financial and tax risks, increase resource efficiency and ensure sustainable development in the long term.