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"National Sales Tax" is a scam peddled to foolish Kool-Aid drinkers of the "right". I do think the tax code is too complicated (not that I am complaining about that - I am a CPA, but I will admit the Code needs simplification.) But the real problem is excessive government spending - not the method of taxation.

I am amazed when I hear people make claims that say by changing the *method* they will decrease the total burden.

And I am amazed that folks are stupid enough to believe that.

"National Sales Tax" is a scam peddled to foolish Kool-Aid drinkers of the "right". I do think the tax code is too complicated (not that I am complaining about that - I am a CPA, but I will admit the Code needs simplification.)

Well the AMT comes quickly to mind.

But the real problem is excessive government spending - not the method of taxation.

Very true.

I am amazed when I hear people make claims that say by changing the *method* they will decrease the total burden.

Also agree. But a major change in the tax system will hurt some and help others. It can't be a win for everyone as sale tax proponents preach.

But the real problem is excessive government spending - not the method of taxation.

I am amazed at the stupidity of those who think the method of taxation has nothing to do with the level of spending.

Withholding. Tax costs hidden in prices. Different rates for different people.... all contribute to the gov'ts ability to raise taxes without much resistance... and if they can raise taxes, they'll spend them on vote buying schemes.

But if witholding were gone and we had to pay taxes with cash out of our pockets, would it increase resistance to higher taxes? Of course - i'd even say it would put downward pressure on taxes.

If there were no taxes hidden in prices - if the amount of tax in prices was clearly labeled on every receipt, would it create more resistance to increasing taxes? Of course - i'd even say it would put downward pressure on taxes.

If we all paid the same rate, would an increase to everyone cause more resistance than an increase on a segment? Of course.'d even say it would put downward pressure on taxes.

Changing the method of collection has everything to do with spending control.