No one, no matter their background, whether rich, or middle class, or struggling financially looks forward to paying taxes. We expect, however, that when we pay our taxes, we are treated fairly. No one should get unfair advantages.
If we have a problem with our taxes, we want the civil servants working for the IRS to treat us promptly and with respect.
Recently, because of years of attrition and decreased funding, the IRS has been understaffed, and has inefficient and outdated systems, which has led to lengthy delays in handling issues of citizens. In addition, because of these staffing issues, wealthy corporations and tax cheaters have little chance of being audited.
The Inflation Reduction Act has solutions for these problems.
Some Republicans are creating a false narrative about the increase in IRS funds, creating fear, and trying to stir up resistance to these future improvements.
The Inflation Reduction Act plans actually include the development of new computer systems and an increase in processing staff, so that refunds are prompt and issues can be resolved quickly.
Some of the wealthiest corporations, like Amazon, have gotten away with paying no taxes in the past, despite making record profits (and relying on the rest of us to pay for defense, roads, and bridges). Because of the inflation Reduction Act, corporations will pay a minimum of 15%.
Wealthy tax avoiders who place a burden on honest taxpayers will be expected to pay their fair share to contribute to their country.
Right now, dishonest taxpayers cheat the government (and the rest of us) out of an estimated $1 trillion a year. Imagine if everyone paid their fair share, this money could go for bridges, roads, national defense, disaster relief, and other needs.
Patricia Keane
Mount Vernon, Ohio
