Taxes seem like the worst thing ever, but they're really the price of living in society. You pay so there are roads, hospitals, police and schools.
Income tax: what they take from your salary
The government looks at what you earn and takes a percentage. The more you earn, the more they take. That's it. In return, you get public services.
VAT: the invisible tax
When you buy something, it already has VAT included. You don't see it, but it's there. That money goes to the state.
The good part about living in a high-tax country
Free public healthcare. Free public education. Pensions. Well-maintained roads. Police. All funded by taxes.
Yes, some taxes seem excessive
Property taxes. Inheritance taxes. Sometimes it hurts. But that's the system.
How to legally pay less
Save in a pension plan and reduce your tax base. Buy a house and get deductions. Money spent on education also reduces what you pay. It's not fraud, it's using the tools the system offers.
The uncomfortable truth
Without taxes there would be no welfare state. It would be a world where only rich people can afford healthcare and education. Taxes make society work.
Rich people pay taxes too
But many find legal ways to pay less. Deductions exist for everyone.