IRS will look into setting up a free e-filing system (washingtonpost.com)

Article summary

The IRS is considering setting up a free e-filing system. The discussion around this topic involves alternative tax systems, such as a national sales tax. Some argue that a sales tax would be regressive, while others propose that it could be made progressive with certain adjustments. The current tax system and potential reforms are being debated.

Main themes

• tax reform
• sales tax
• progressivity
• regressivity
• FairTax
• taxation without representation
• corporate taxes

What commenters say

• A national sales tax would be regressive and unfairly burden low-income individuals.
• Implementing a sales tax could simplify the tax system and reduce the burden on businesses.
• The current tax system is progressive and should be maintained to ensure fairness.
• A sales tax with a rebate for essentials could help mitigate its regressive effects.
• Reducing corporate taxes may not lead to lower prices for consumers.
• Taxation without representation is a concern for certain groups, such as non-citizen residents and children.
• The FairTax proposal has been researched and could potentially reduce the overall tax burden, but its progressivity is disputed.
• Direct redistribution could be used to achieve progressivity in a sales tax system.