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Loss evasion and tax aversion

Author

Listed:
  • Engström, Per

    (Department of Economics)

  • Nordblom, Katarina

    (Department of Economics)

  • Ohlsson, Henry

    (Department of Economics)

  • Persson, Annika

    (The Swedish Tax Agency)

Abstract

The objective of this paper is to study if taxpayers behave in a loss averse manner when filing their tax returns. This is important for tax design but also for understanding human behavior in general. The predictions of prospect theory can be contrasted to those of expected utility theory. We use data for 3.6 million Swedish taxpayers for the income year 2006. Our research method is quasi-experimental using a regression kink and discontinuity approach. We also use an alternative instrumental-variables approach. There is strong evidence of loss aversion. We estimate the coefficient of loss aversion using actual behavior and the instrument-variables approach. Our estimate is very close to the estimates reported in the experimental literature.

Suggested Citation

  • Engström, Per & Nordblom, Katarina & Ohlsson, Henry & Persson, Annika, 2011. "Loss evasion and tax aversion," Working Paper Series 2011:17, Uppsala University, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:hhs:uunewp:2011_017
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    More about this item

    Keywords

    loss aversion; prospect theory; tax compliance; quasi-experiment; regression kink; regression discontinuity;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • C21 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Cross-Sectional Models; Spatial Models; Treatment Effect Models
    • C26 - Mathematical and Quantitative Methods - - Single Equation Models; Single Variables - - - Instrumental Variables (IV) Estimation
    • D03 - Microeconomics - - General - - - Behavioral Microeconomics: Underlying Principles
    • H24 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Personal Income and Other Nonbusiness Taxes and Subsidies
    • H26 - Public Economics - - Taxation, Subsidies, and Revenue - - - Tax Evasion and Avoidance

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