Inequalities on Tax Effort of Personal Income Tax

ABSTRACT Fairness is the underlying general idea of tax systems regarding the tax burden, and the redistribution of wealth in order to reduce inequalities. The principles of equitable distribution of tax burden, the tax equality and progressive income taxation are considered very relevant to the compliance of the tax policy as far as the reduction the income disparities is concerned. This research deals with the distribution of the tax effort of the Portuguese and seeks to demonstrate that the distribution of tax burden is not fair nor corresponds to the declared income levels. It demonstrates that inequalities in income distribution have worsened. The findings of this study can show verifiable possible trends in other countries, including Brazil.