How much is a "Fair share?"

[spartan]

OK folks, there are quite a number of self professed progressives on this board who are supportive of the Presidents assertion that the "rich" don't pay their fair share.

So, what is exactly someones "fair share" in terms of a percentage or a figure? I would really be interested in your opinions and I am not being sarcastic.

[dbucfan]

This begs the question of what a progressive income tax is vs the US tax code.  I dislike the progressive format and hate the US tax code.  The progressive simply creates a floor and increases percentages as taxable income increases.  I dislike the floor concept - and hate the manipulation provided within the US tax code.  In my mind the US tax code is a model for behavior modification via financial incentives.

Fair share - minimum tax - 1000/year.  That assures everyone has something headed to the US Government.  Then one or two tax rates - the percentage(s) dependent upon what loopholes survive the decimation of the current tax code.  All money made is taxed as income, and all income US companies and citizens make in the world is subject to the tax. No real answers beyond a simple format.  I was a huge proponent of Forbes' plan - you should be able to do you taxes on the 3 x 5 card he referenced.

[spartan]

dbucfan, you're not a Progressive so until we get some responses you are not allowed to participate in the thread Plus you did not give a figure so your post is null and void. Actually I'm off for an Advil before I read it again.

[dbucfan]

Can't give a percentage until one knows if all income is in or if there will be deductions from taxable income - based upon calculations offered by Forbes and others I would anticipate the high teens.  And you're right - I am likely not a progressive. 

[Durango 95]

Well, just for the record I know absolutely nothing about this subject so if you're looking for this "progressive" to jump-in you're barking up the wrong tree.
Taxes, economy etc.....I'm a deer in the headlights.

[spartan]

Well, just for the record I know absolutely nothing about this subject so if you're looking for this "progressive" to jump-in you're barking up the wrong tree.
Taxes, economy etc.....I'm a deer in the headlights.

Didn't you say you were a Libertarian?

[spartan]

Can't give a percentage until one knows if all income is in or if there will be deductions from taxable income - based upon calculations offered by Forbes and others I would anticipate the high teens.  And you're right - I am likely not a progressive.

No, no, no. I know where you are going with that and am saying not yet. Later, maybe, but not now. It will only cloud the issue.

[The Anti-Java]

Not a progressive or libertarian here, but I tend to agree with Dbucfan and that Forbes plan that was popular many years ago.  I believe it was 17% IIRC.  Flat tax.   The current system is insane.

[Durango 95]

Well, just for the record I know absolutely nothing about this subject so if you're looking for this "progressive" to jump-in you're barking up the wrong tree.
Taxes, economy etc.....I'm a deer in the headlights.

Didn't you say you were a Libertarian?

No. I am not a Libertarian.

But if I was forced to define myself politically, I would qualify the term by describing myself as a Left Leaning Libertarian.

(Socially liberal, small govt. etc)

You don't meet many of those everyday.

I only mentioned progressive because I thought you were assuming that..

[dbucfan]

Can't give a percentage until one knows if all income is in or if there will be deductions from taxable income - based upon calculations offered by Forbes and others I would anticipate the high teens.  And you're right - I am likely not a progressive.

No, no, no. I know where you are going with that and am saying not yet. Later, maybe, but not now. It will only cloud the issue.

sorry - if you want my thoughts deleted let me know

[spartan]

No, don't worry about it.

[tatmanfish]

Flat tax all the way. everyone pays the same amount. Thats the definition of fair. I suppose Im not one of the poeople you were looking for an answer from though. Im guessing most wont post here....couch.....CBW....cough.

[CBWx2]

This is pretty much a loaded question. No matter what I say, it isn't going to be considered fair to anyone who advocates eliminating a progressive tax scale, which is pretty much all of you. It amazes me, however, that in a nation dependent on demand, one would advocate regressive taxation. Nothing kills consumerism faster than a tax system that favors the rich and burdens the working class.

[spartan]

Refusing to answer the question. Not unexpected as it is the usual response.

[Chief Joseph]

Mr. Rich Man, we're going to favor you by letting you pay most of your income to taxes, so the poor don't have to pay anything.

No need to thank us.