A new study commissioned by FastTax.ie, formerly PayLessTax.ie, uncovers significant emotional and practical challenges faced by Irish individuals when dealing with their tax returns.

The research, conducted by iReach Insights, comprising a nationally representative sample of 1,000 respondents, highlights a sense of uncertainty, frustration, and a fear of making costly mistakes, as the annual tax season approaches.

The survey 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.

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.

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."

Looking at Income Tax Form 11 more specifically, a staggering 34% or one in three respondents don’t know if they are even required to file this form.

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.

Nearly a quarter of respondents couldn’t identify any scenario for which an Income Tax Form 11 is required.  

The research also highlights a number of barriers and frustrations people have when filing taxes, either with the help of an accountant or specialist advisor or when filing themselves using Revenue Online Services (ROS).

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.

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.”

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.