A new nationally representative survey of 1,000 Irish taxpayers has uncovered just how stressful and confusing tax season really is for people across the country. The research, commissioned by FastTax.ie, reveals widespread anxiety, lack of confidence, and frustration with both accountants and Revenue’s Online Services (ROS) when completing their income tax returns.

Tax season stress is the norm, not the exception

  • 53% of Irish taxpayers say tax season causes them genuine stress and anxiety.

  • 63% report having significant concerns when filing their income tax return.

  • The single biggest fear? Making innocent mistakes that could be costly — cited by 40% of respondents.

This anxiety isn’t just about paperwork; it’s about people’s financial security and peace of mind.

A worrying knowledge gap

The survey also highlights how unclear the rules are for many taxpayers:

  • Only 44% are confident they are claiming all their eligible credits and deductions.

  • 34% don’t even know if they are required to file an Income Tax Form 11, risking non-compliance and potential penalties.

Frustrations with accountants and advisors

Traditional support routes aren’t easing the burden.

  • 74% report frustrations with accountants or tax advisors.

  • The leading complaints are high fees (24%) and slow processes (24%).

  • Many feel they are paying more than they should for basic filing support.

Challenges with Revenue’s Online Services (ROS)

For those filing directly:

  • 73% say they face significant challenges using ROS.

  • The main issues: lack of knowledge (39%) and the system being “too complex” (over 1 in 3 respondents).

  • Many reported losing a full day or more each year battling through their tax return.

Why FastTax.ie carried out this research

Cathal Maxwell, founder of FastTax.ie said: “Our rebrand to FastTax.ie isn’t just a new name, it’s a commitment to simplifying the tax filing experience for those individuals who are required to file an Income Tax Form 11 each year. We’ve listened to the frustrations of Irish taxpayers, and we are dedicated to offering an intuitive, reliable, and supportive platform, designed to empower individuals to manage their tax affairs cost effectively and with ease, speed, and confidence.”

FastTax.ie: A better way forward

FastTax.ie (previously PayLessTax.ie) is an Irish-owned, family-run business that has been helping thousands of customers file their Income Tax Form 11 since 2008. The platform was specifically built to address the issues highlighted in the research:

  • Simpler: Pulls your details directly from ROS, guiding you only through the fields relevant to you.

  • Smarter: Ensures you’re claiming all credits and deductions you’re entitled to.

  • Faster: Cuts the time spent on filing — no more days lost to stress.

  • Affordable: Transparent pricing, with three clear service tiers starting from €145.

Whether you’re self-employed, a landlord, an investor, or a PAYE earner with additional income, FastTax.ie makes it easier to file with confidence.

Final word

The survey findings are clear: most Irish taxpayers feel anxious, underprepared, and underserved at tax time. FastTax.ie offers a modern solution — one that saves money, reduces stress, and gives peace of mind.

👉 Learn more about how FastTax.ie can help you file your Form 11 stress-free.

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