Hawai’i’s Tax System
Taxes Should Reduce Inequality — Not Deepen It
A fair tax system should help to close the gap between the rich and everyone else. But in Hawaiʻi, our current system is making inequality worse.
Who Pays More — and Who Pays Less
Our state’s tax system asks the least from those who have the most. Hawaiʻi’s wealthiest residents pay the lowest portion of their income on taxes, while low- and moderate-income families pay the highest. This means that people who are struggling with the high cost of living are carrying a heavier tax load — while the wealthy benefit from tax breaks and loopholes.
Two Paths to a Better Tax System
1
Tax Credits for Working Families
These help working families keep more of what they earn, and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Expanding tax credits puts money back in the pockets of low-income and ALICE households who spend it in their local communities.
2
Taxing Corporations and Wealth
These help working families keep more of what they earn, and ensure the wealthy pay their fair share. Expanding tax credits puts money back in the pockets of low-income and ALICE households who spend it in their local communities.