Tax Sentiment Among Americans As Deadline Approaches
With the tax filing deadline of April 15 nearing, many Americans feel they’re contributing more than their fair share in taxes, particularly among those earning the most. Recent findings from Pew Research Center highlight this growing concern.
Even though there have been tax cuts for everyone, this feeling has become more pronounced in recent years. For instance, many are anticipating bigger tax refunds in 2026, with averages projected to be about 11% higher than last year, according to IRS data. This increase is tied to upcoming tax reductions set to take effect in 2025.
Approximately 68% of high earners, defined as households with a gross income over $155,600, believe they pay too much in taxes—the highest percentage among any income demographic, as reported by Pew. In contrast, only about a third of those questioned felt their tax burden was fair.
Complaining about taxes isn’t new, but dissatisfaction appears to be growing, with around 60% of adults claiming their taxes are too high in 2026. This is an increase from roughly 51% in 2019. A Gallup survey echoes this sentiment, revealing that 59% of participants believe they are overpaying in taxes.
Experts suggest this rising discontent may stem from many households grappling with inflation, which has remained significant post-pandemic. When you factor in the mounting costs of essentials like groceries, gas, health care, and housing, it’s understandable that frustrations are mounting.
“Many hardworking Americans feel financial pressure,” noted Mark Steber, chief tax officer at Jackson Hewitt Tax Services, in an email. “It’s tough any time money is deducted from one’s earnings, even if it involves fulfilling a necessary responsibility during tax season.”
On another note, tax rates for various income brackets have actually decreased in recent decades, with the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 reducing the top tax rate from 39.6% to 37% during President Trump’s tenure.
The Complexity of Taxes
Widespread public dissatisfaction may also stem from the complicated nature of the tax code, according to Steber.
Many Americans don’t fully grasp how taxes operate. A 2024 survey by the Tax Foundation revealed that over half of taxpayers lack fundamental tax literacy, including understanding tax brackets.
The tax system is designed to be progressive, meaning lower-income Americans generally pay a smaller portion of their income in federal taxes compared to their higher-earning counterparts. IRS statistics show that high-income households shoulder the majority of federal income taxes, with many low-income households facing minimal or no income tax obligations, despite still incurring payroll, sales, and state taxes.
“Income tax can be complicated, but this complexity comes at a cost of perceived fairness,” Steber explained. “With everyone’s financial situation being unique, and layered onto an intricate tax system, people naturally compare what they owe against what they receive in return. This can deepen the belief that they’re paying more than their fair share.”
