> import sys
> import Tax8
>
> t = Tax8.tax
>
> x = open('incomes.dat', 'r+')
>
opening a file is only the first step. All that does is prepare the file to be
read later. Think of this as getting a manilla folder out of a cabinet. You
have it in your hand but have not had a chance to look though its contents yet.
Have a look at a few of the online tutorials for inspiration.