What is the difference between a tax return and a tax assessment?

@alan 

A tax return and a tax assessment are two different processes related to filing and settling taxes.

1. Tax Return: A tax return is a document or a set of forms that individuals (or businesses) are required to file with the tax authorities to report their income, expenses, deductions, and tax liability for a specific period. It is a way for taxpayers to provide information about their financial situation to determine the amount of taxes they owe or the refund they may be entitled to. Tax returns are typically filed annually (e.g., Form 1040 in the United States) or depending on the specific requirements of a country's tax system.
2. Tax Assessment: A tax assessment, on the other hand, is the process by which tax authorities review and verify the information provided in a tax return. After receiving the tax return, the tax authorities analyze the data, conduct any necessary audits, and calculate the final tax liability or refund owed to the individual (or business). This involves examining income, deductions, credits, and other relevant information to ensure accuracy and compliance with tax laws and regulations. The result of a tax assessment is a determination of the taxpayer's actual tax liability or refund.

In summary, a tax return is the initial document filed by taxpayers to report their financial information, while a tax assessment is the subsequent process carried out by the tax authorities to review, verify, and calculate the final tax liability or refund based on the information provided.