They're often withheld from one's paycheck

TAXES

Think of the mandatory contributions that fund public services like roads and schools, usually deducted before you see your take-home pay.

This clue plays on the idea of money being taken out of your paycheck before you receive it. "Withheld" is a key hint—it directly refers to taxes, which are deducted from your earnings by your employer. The phrasing is straightforward, with no wordplay or hidden meanings, just a common financial term most people encounter. If you’ve ever looked at a pay stub, you’ve seen taxes listed as one of the deductions.