| S.No | Direct Taxes | Indirect Taxes |
| 1. | Direct taxes are levied and paid by individuals (tax payer) directly to the government. | Indirect taxes are those which are imposed on one person but the burden of the tax is borne by another. |
| 2. | Direct taxes help in reducing inflation. | Indirect taxes may enhance inflation. |
| 3. | Direct taxes help in reducing inequalities. | Indirect taxes increase inequality and are considered to be regressive. |
| 4. | Example of direct taxes : Excise Duty, Custom Duty, etc. | Examples of indirect taxes : Sales Tax, VAT, etc. |