Should the rich be taxed at higher rates because they are rich?

Answer 1

I believe in an equal tax rate for all. Just because your prosperous shouldn't mean you have to pay any more percentage than the working stiff barely getting by. It would be fair to all and yes the rich would pay more, but it would put emphasis on that we are all equal, at least during tax time. The rich don't get to vote more than poor, everyone gets one vote, everyone should pay one tax. Before you judge me let me say I'm a blue collar worker supporting a family.

Answer 2

The rich already are taxed more. That's why our tax system is considered progressive. Under a FLAT TAX, where everyone is taxed by a same percentage of their income would actually DECREASE the amount of taxes paid by the rich and would significantly INCREASE taxes paid by the low income.

Here are a few facts:
Top 50% of earners paid 96.7% of income taxes.
Bottom 50% only paid 3.3%
Top 1% of earners paid 36.89% of the income taxes.
Top 1% of earners average income tax rate was 23.49%
Bottom 50% of earners average income tax rate was 2.97%

So, let's say there is a 20% flat tax implemented. The bottom earning 50% would see their average tax rate go from 2.97% to 20%. Do you think that's fair? Why do you think so many rich people are in favor of the flat tax?

Answer 3

In my opinion, the only fair way is to tax everyone equally, at the same percentage. A flat tax. The "rich" would automatically pay a larger dollar amount, but not percentage of income.
Start taxing after an individual reaches a certain level of income (this would exclude all "poor" and "disabled) and don't change the rate. Ever. Not for any reason. No deductions either.

Answer 4

No. (I am not rich). The foundation of our society is democracy where people are rewarded for working hard. There has to be an incentive for people to work harder and make more money. You care thinking of rich people in terms of movie stars and baseball players. Most "rich" people are doctors, lawyers and engineers who worked very hard and are trying to raise families. I don't think they should have to pay more. Do they use more of the public services than you do? Probably not.

Answer 5

No. The same per centage on more money means they pay more. But I also think they shouldn't be allowed loopholes to get out of paying, either.

I learned some amazing statistics a few years ago about taxes and who pays the most. Do some web surfing and see what you find out.

Thanks for a thought provoking question.

Answer 6

They already are.

The first rule of taxation is: Make sure that the taxpayer can afford to pay the tax.

By their very nature, the wealthy are able to contribute more and therefore should. If you remove the burden from the wealthy you must place it on someone else. That would mean dumping it on the shoulders of the middle class and the poor. Not exactly a smart way to go.

Answer 7

Yes, I think they should help the poor by shouldering more taxes, that is, when your income falls in a certain level then your tax would depend on it...

Answer 8

Sure why not..and when you don't recieve your raise in salary you'll know why.

Answer 9

THE MORE YOU MAKE THE MORE THEY TAKE.

Answer 10

Hell f'n yes