Inheritance Tax: A Tool for Reducing Inequality

Inheritance Tax: A Tool for Reducing Inequality

Subject: Economy

Sec: Fiscal Policy

Tag: Inheritance Tax, Inequality

Introduction:

• Sam Pitroda’s suggestion of implementing an inheritance tax for wealth redistribution has sparked debates.
• This article advocates for progressive taxes to address high inequality.

Impact of Inequality:

• Inequality undermines democratic decision-making by concentrating power in the hands of a wealthy few.
• It hampers economic growth, affects labor income, and diverts resources from essential services like education.
• Unequal countries see disparities based on place of birth, leading to unequal outcomes.
• Inequality contributes to political polarization, conflicts, and negative economic effects.

Arguments for Inheritance Tax:

• Wealth redistribution through an inheritance tax can reduce wealth concentration and promote productive investments.
• Property inheritance without work undermines economic principles.
• Concerns about disincentivizing innovation are unfounded, as revenue from taxes can fund diverse innovations.
• Historical examples like Japan’s 55% inheritance tax and India’s past estates duty show effectiveness in wealth distribution.

Alternatives to Inheritance Tax:

•   Land value tax (LVT) targets rental value of land, providing a fair source of revenue.
•   LVT can address feudal caste relations in rural India and the politician-builder nexus in urban areas.
•   Tax evasion concerns among the wealthy can be addressed with improved tax compliance measures.

Economic Impact and Potential:

• Investment in tax compliance can yield significant revenue gains, according to recent research.
• Wealth and inheritance taxes on the top 1% in India can generate substantial public expenditure for socioeconomic rights.

Conclusion:

• Implementation of progressive taxation measures, including inheritance tax, can pave the way for socioeconomic rights and reduce inequality with political will and technological advancements.

Understanding Inheritance Tax: A Comprehensive Overview

Application:

• Inheritance tax is a tax levied on the value of property or assets inherited from a deceased individual.
• Paid by the beneficiary, it can reach up to 55% in some countries.
• In India, inheritance tax is currently not enforced.

Global Examples:

• Many European, American, and African nations levy inheritance tax.
• Countries like France, Germany, and Japan have high rates.
• Inheritance tax rates vary globally, reaching up to 55%.

Factors Influencing Demand in India:

• Rising wealth and income inequality.
• Disproportionate tax burden on the poor.
• Lack of inclusive growth and social safety nets.

Advantages and Challenges of Implementation:

• Advantages:
  • Efficient wealth dispersion and social mobility.
  • Based on egalitarian ideals and progressive taxation.
  • Additional revenue for public welfare programs.
• Challenges:
  • Tax system complexity and enforcement issues.
  • Resistance from wealthy families and political/social challenges.
  • Lack of comprehensive data and potential tax evasion.

Similar Taxes in India:

1. Death Tax: Imposed on inherited property, abolished in 1985.
2. Gift Tax: Duty on gifts, abolished in 1998 and reintroduced in 2004.
3. Wealth Tax: Duty on net worth, abolished in 2015.

Way Forward:

• Introduction with higher thresholds targeting the super-rich.
• Exemptions for endowments to specific institutions.
• Utilizing advanced technologies to improve tax administration.