IRS Estimate of Unpaid Taxes

So now the IRS has estimated that $195 billion a year is not being collected to support our government (May 2). That means that we taxpayers are each paying an extra $1,600 per year (on average). Doesn’t this revelation further underscore that the current income tax system needs to be replaced by a system that is fairer as well as more efficient?

The IRS has been found to be abusive to taxpayers--that’s us; it has been corrupted within its own operations. It’s also very expensive to operate. And there are probably other ills inherent in such a negative type of activity.

Let’s set up a task force to assess the various alternatives to accomplish our real goal; i.e., what is the best way to raise the funds needed to operate our government and its various programs?

GEORGE EPSTEIN

Los Angeles

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The reported loss on the legitimate economy--the estimated 6 million Americans who fail to file any tax return--does not take into account the illegitimate economy of drugs, gambling and prostitution. It does not count those used-to-be-honest citizens who “fudge.” Or corporations that fudge with loopholes and offshore activity. Conservatively, we are looking at a trillion-dollar loss to the economy, and worse, the fact that the fear, distrust and dread of the IRS robs the nation of much of its moral value.

Bring that trillion back into the economy. Rich and poor pay federal tax on gasoline; rich and poor pay federal tax on cigarettes; rich and poor pay federal tax on liquor. Close down the dreaded IRS (save plenty of bucks there) and put a 10% federal tax on everything from a candy bar to a Cadillac! No exceptions!

GEORGE MARGO

Malibu

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Everyone has a horror story to some degree regarding the IRS. But the real horror is the lack of action for years and years by our legislators to remedy the problem.

Change the IRS’ modus operandi to comply with our constitutional rights: “We are innocent until proven guilty.” The IRS marching instructions are, “We are guilty until proven innocent.” By reversing this directive of the IRS, it will force them to provide evidence of wrongdoing prior to accusing innocent persons.

I also understand the IRS defense, which stated there are millions of people who cheat on their taxes. But Gestapo tactics are not the way to go.

CHARLES DUSCHECK

Chatsworth

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Current stories about IRS abuses miss the point. Taxes are too high, and too much of our money is being wasted. That’s the real abuse.

JONATHAN STARR

Beverly Hills