An audit by the Internal Revenue Service has long been the nightmare scenario for most taxpayers. But in 2009, after bailouts and stimulus plans totaling trillions of dollars, there’s a bigger concern: a fear the government will run out of money before issuing taxpayer refunds.
Nearly half (47%) of the nation’s adults expect a tax refund this year. Of that group, 34% of them are at least somewhat concerned the government won’t have enough cash left to write a refund check. That figure includes 20% who are Very Concerned there will be no cash left for refunds (see crosstabs).
The worry is likely fed in part by reports that both California and Kansas have threatened to hold up state tax refunds this year because of budget shortages.
By way of comparison, only six percent (6%) of Americans are Very Concerned about an IRS audit. Another 10% are somewhat concerned. On this question, there is little difference between those who expect a refund and those who don’t.
On the question of having enough cash for refunds, entrepreneurs are more worried than government workers and those who work for someone else in the private sector. Younger adults and those with lower incomes are a bit more concerned than others.
Twenty-eight percent (28%) of investors are concerned about getting the refund they’re owed along with 39% of non-investors.
Government employees and entrepreneurs are more concerned about an audit than private sector employees and those who are retired.
An earlier survey found that 66% of Americans worry that the federal government will run out of money.
Voters oppose more government money being spent to prop up the banking industry or rescue the auto industry. Voters have mixed reactions to plans for providing mortgage subsidies for financially troubled homeowners.
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment
Note: Only a member of this blog may post a comment.