economy

Most Americans say they pay too much in taxes. Here's what the data shows.

April 14, 2026 / 3:47 PM EDT / CBS News

Most Americans say they pay too much in taxes. Here's what the data shows.

TL;DR

  • A majority of Americans feel they are paying too much in taxes, with this sentiment being highest among top earners.
  • The belief that one pays too much in taxes has become more widespread, increasing from 51% in 2019 to 60% in recent polls.
  • Despite tax cuts and larger refunds, public dissatisfaction with tax burdens is on the rise.
  • Factors contributing to this sentiment may include the strain of inflation and the complexity of the tax code.
  • The tax system is progressive, meaning higher-income households pay a larger proportion of federal income taxes, while lower-income households may owe little or nothing.
  • Many taxpayers lack basic understanding of how taxes and tax brackets function.