How about setting up the tax system so that it doesn't have to have deductions, credits, or refunds. Why enforce a tax if your going to provide deductions to get out from under the tax? Why offer tax credits (reductions) that also get a person away from their initial taxes? And why have a tax system where you get refunds? Why are we paying more than we are supposed to in the first place (yes because of credits and deductions). The government should operate under a set budget and people should pay a set percentage. We hear all of these cries for fair shares. Well, no matter how much you make, you should be paying something. If we all order a pizza, everyone should be pitching in to pay for it.