As an expert in the field of economics and taxation, I can provide an informed perspective on the distribution of tax burdens among different income groups. It is important to note that tax policies and rates can vary significantly from one country to another, and even within different regions of a single country. However, I will focus on the general trends and figures that are often discussed in the context of developed economies.
The question of what percentage of taxes are paid by the rich is a complex one, as it involves various factors such as income levels, types of taxes, and the progressiveness of the tax system. In many countries, a progressive tax system is in place, where individuals with higher incomes are required to pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes. This is intended to distribute the tax burden more equitably across society.
According to the Tax Foundation, a think tank that advocates for lower taxes, in 2010, the top 10 percent of taxpayers in the United States paid over 70% of the total amount collected in federal income taxes. This figure is quite significant and has increased from 55% in 1986. This indicates a trend where a larger share of the tax burden is being carried by the higher-income earners. The remaining 90 percent of taxpayers bore just under 30% of the tax burden, which suggests a considerable disparity in the distribution of the tax load.
It is also important to consider the types of taxes that are being discussed. Income taxes are just one part of the overall tax system. Other taxes, such as property taxes, sales taxes, and payroll taxes, can also contribute to the total tax burden. The incidence of these taxes can be more regressive, meaning they may disproportionately affect lower-income individuals.
Furthermore, tax policies can change over time due to various factors, including changes in government, economic conditions, and societal priorities. For example, tax cuts or increases can be implemented to stimulate economic growth, reduce the budget deficit, or address income inequality. These changes can have a profound impact on the distribution of the tax burden among different income groups.
In addition to federal income taxes, state and local taxes can also play a significant role in the overall tax burden. In the United States, for instance, some states have no income tax, while others have a relatively high rate. This can lead to variations in the tax burden even among individuals with similar incomes.
Finally, it is worth noting that the ability to pay taxes is not solely determined by income. Other factors, such as deductions, credits, and loopholes, can also influence the amount of taxes that an individual or a corporation pays. High-income earners and corporations may have access to more sophisticated tax planning strategies that can reduce their effective tax rates.
In conclusion, while the rich do pay a significant portion of the total taxes collected, the exact percentage can vary and is influenced by numerous factors, including the progressiveness of the tax system, the types of taxes in question, and the specific policies in place at any given time. It is essential to consider these complexities when discussing the distribution of the tax burden among different income groups.

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The top 10 percent of taxpayers paid over 70% of the total amount collected in federal income taxes in 2010, the latest year figures are available, according to the Tax Foundation, a think tank that advocates for lower taxes. That's up from 55% in 1986. The remaining 90% bore just under 30% of the tax burden.Mar 12, 2013read more >>