Blimey why is Tax so complicated?

[srebbe64]

The morning I've not been feeling too well so I'm working from home and I've been going through various Inland Revenue websites, for both personal and professional reasons, and it has struck me just how incredibly complex the whole Tax system is. I find, when running a buiness, it's best to keep everything simple - that way people understand it and things get done. Also, the more complex a system is the greater the likelihood of either a mistake happening or people 'playing the system'. I would wager that if you looked at the whole UK Tax system with a blank sheet of paper you would not end up with the monstrosity which currently exists. Also, no wonder there are so many Tax planning advisors out there, because they are 'playing the system', so ultimately it's an own goal by the Revenue!

[PetrolTed]

Totally agree.

However, the alternative would be too unpalatable. A real income tax rate of 70% and no other taxes?

[srebbe64]

True, but such an unpalatable Tax regime would make Joe Public force the Government to spend the money more wisely - as it would be so black and white.

[ginettag27]

flat tax, it's the future!! and no credits, allowances or any other kind of shenanigans!

[thewave]

I say make tax more complicated


I have a family to feed

[emicen]

I respond with the usual spleen vented bile:

complicated tax = complicated to administrate = civi servant jobs = bought votes

flat/transparent tax = simple to follow = no scope for stealth tax

government = s

My 3 point theory as to why this country is doomed