A survey of over 2,000 people across the UK carried out by Deloitte in partnership with YouGov has revealed a lack of understanding around personal tax affairs, particularly among those aged 18 to 24.
The survey involved asking a series of tax questions leading to a knowledge score based on correct responses. The results showed the average person in the UK scoring 10.6 out of a possible 30, while almost half of people scored 10 or less.
Those aged 18-24 achieved the lowest average score of 6.9. Results steadily increased with age, with over 55s averaging a score of 12.3.
The survey also found a link between understanding of the tax system and attitudes towards it. Results showed that the more respondents knew, the more likely they were to say that the UK tax system is fair. Only 13% of those achieving a score of 10 or less thought the system was fair or very fair. This figure rose to 28% among those scoring 15 or over. Those who achieved a higher tax score were also less likely to want to cut taxes.
The majority of people surveyed (78%) said that, in general, people do not know enough about tax, while 76% said that there should be more tax education in schools.
A survey of over 2,000 people across the UK carried out by Deloitte in partnership with YouGov has revealed a lack of understanding around personal tax affairs, particularly among those aged 18 to 24.
The survey involved asking a series of tax questions leading to a knowledge score based on correct responses. The results showed the average person in the UK scoring 10.6 out of a possible 30, while almost half of people scored 10 or less.
Those aged 18-24 achieved the lowest average score of 6.9. Results steadily increased with age, with over 55s averaging a score of 12.3.
The survey also found a link between understanding of the tax system and attitudes towards it. Results showed that the more respondents knew, the more likely they were to say that the UK tax system is fair. Only 13% of those achieving a score of 10 or less thought the system was fair or very fair. This figure rose to 28% among those scoring 15 or over. Those who achieved a higher tax score were also less likely to want to cut taxes.
The majority of people surveyed (78%) said that, in general, people do not know enough about tax, while 76% said that there should be more tax education in schools.
