Which deductions are considered mandatory from a person’s paycheck?

The deductions considered mandatory from a person's paycheck include federal withholding tax and FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) taxes. Federal withholding tax is required because it ensures that the government collects income tax from individuals directly at the source of their earnings. This system helps to distribute the tax burden throughout the year and prevents individuals from facing large tax bills when they file their annual returns.

FICA tax is also mandatory as it funds Social Security and Medicare programs, providing benefits for retirees, disabled individuals, and those qualifying for health care assistance. These deductions are legally required and are automatically taken from employee paychecks by employers.

The other options do not include mandatory deductions. Charity and retirement savings, for instance, are discretionary; employees can choose whether or not to contribute to these funds. Health insurance premiums can be mandatory if provided by the employer, but they are not required by law across all job settings. Local taxes may apply depending on the jurisdiction, but they aren’t universally applicable like federal withholding and FICA taxes.