Did you pay more than you needed to on April 15? Some people are in a position to file a 1040EZ. That would be pretty easy to read. Others have multiple asset classes and multiple income streams and take advantage of the opportunity to claim expenses against income as is allowed in the US tax code. The "tricks" as you call them. That can make things quite a bit more complicated. I personally employ every "trick" I can think of, including strategic planning, to lower my tax burden, or "avoid" taxes as you like to say. Paying more than is required is just dumb, not patriotic. Unless of course you think the government does a better job of managing your money than you do. In that case please feel free to send in a little extra.