With a sense of uncertainty, frustration and a fear of making costly mistakes as the annual tax season approaches, a new study uncovers significant emotional and practical challenges faced by Irish individuals when dealing with their tax returns.
The survey – commissioned by FastTax.ie, formerly PayLessTax.ie – found that the phrase “tax returns” conjures feelings of stress and anxiety (53%) for over half of those surveyed. While some report feeling organised (29%) or confident (24%), the dominant emotion is one of apprehension and dread.
Overall, a striking 63% or more than 3 in 5 of Irish adults admit to having at least one significant concern when filing their taxes.
Nearly 40% of respondents said “fear of making innocent mistakes that could be costly” is their biggest worry when filing taxes. This is closely followed by “being overwhelmed or confused” (31%).
The research indicates that less than half (44%) of Irish adults are confident they are claiming all eligible tax credits and deductions, suggesting many could be missing out on entitlements.
With regards to the time it takes to prepare and file personal tax returns, a quarter of people (25%) said they spend a day or more working to file their taxes annually. FastTax.ie, Ireland’s specialist platform supporting online filing of Tax Form 11s, estimates that with the right supports and information, the process should be taking no longer than two hours, with many customers completing their return in under one hour.
FORM 11
The research highlights a clear knowledge gap when it comes to filing an Income Tax Form 11, with nearly a quarter of respondents unable to identify any scenario for which an Income Tax Form 11 is required. A Form 11 is a self-assessment tax return for self-employed individuals or individuals with additional non-PAYE income, such as rental or investment income.
Also, almost three-quarters (74%) of those who use an accountant or specialist tax advisor report frustrations. High fees (24%) and slow, time-consuming processes (24%) are the leading complaints, with nearly half (47%) feeling they are overpaying for these services.
Similarly, for those who tackle their taxes themselves, 73% face significant challenges when using ROS.
A substantial 39% cite a “lack of knowledge” around filing requirements as their main frustration, while more than one in three find the process “too complex” with too many fields to complete. 29% of respondents find it difficult to collate all the necessary documentation required to file the Income Tax Form 11 each year.
Commenting on the research findings, Kel Galavan, Money Coach and founder of Mrs. Smart Money, said, “This latest research clearly illustrates that for many, the tax season is a period of genuine stress and uncertainty. The findings highlight some of the emotional and practical difficulties people face. From fear of errors to the complexity of the process, it’s clear taxes are a source of anxiety and confusion for a majority of Irish adults.”
The Pay and File deadline for the 2024 Income Tax Return (Form 11) is Friday 31 October 2025 with an extension if you pay and file online set for Wednesday 19 November 2025.
