In 2019, tech entrepreneur and innovator Elon Musk paid an estimated US$695.3 million in taxes, making it one of the largest single-person tax payments on record. His immense wealth — estimated at US$36.5 billion in 2019 — makes him one of the world’s 400 wealthiest individuals. His significant tax payment highlights the importance of having substantial income and a smart tax strategy for high earners.
Musk’s fortune is derived from his stake in Tesla, Inc., a multibillion dollar electric vehicle and clean energy company he founded in 2003. Musk’s total remuneration from his role as CEO of Tesla in 2019 amounted to just over US$2.3 billion, making it one of the highest compensation packages ever reported for an executive in the US.
The majority of Musk’s 2019 tax payment was likely paid in income tax, as the US tax code levies a top marginal tax rate of 37% on high earners. That said, investors are well advised to research the state and federal tax code to be sure they are taking advantage of all relevant tax breaks they qualify for. Tax advisors can provide valuable insights into how to maximize one’s savings when preparing taxes.
For the very wealthy, resorting to tax minimization strategies, such as using foreign tax shelters, is a temptation they cannot easily ignore. But, with Amazon’s Jeff Bezos paying an estimated US$162 million in federal income taxes in 2019 and Musk also paying nearly US$700 million, it is clear that many of the world’s wealthiest individuals are willing to pay a substantial portion of their income in taxes.
Tax Deductions for the Wealthy
It is possible for wealthier taxpayers to significantly reduce the amount of income taxes they have to pay. These taxpayers have access to certain deductions and other opportunities, such as charitable giving, that can be beneficial for their taxes. Charitable donations are especially advantageous, as they can reduce one’s taxable income while also benefiting a worthy cause. For example, deductions taken on charitable contributions worth US$2,500 can significantly lower one’s taxable income, potentially allowing one to avoid being classified as a high earner and entering a higher tax bracket.
High earners also have access to deductions for mortgage interest payments, real estate or property taxes, and capital gains taxes. By carefully planning and strategizing, wealthy taxpayers can often significantly lower the amount of taxes they have to pay. It is important, therefore, to seek the advice of a qualified tax attorney or certified public accountant when preparing taxes.
Philanthropy and Social Responsibility
Musk is often recognized for his philanthropy, donating to various causes, both publicly and privately. From his many charitable donations throughout his career, he has donated in excess of US$13 billion to various causes, including education, health, clean energy, and research, among others. He believes strongly in the importance of social responsibility, and, as such, his large tax contribution can be seen as a positive contribution to society.
For instance, in the early days at Tesla, Musk refused to receive a salary for his work as CEO and instead used his shares as compensation. His salary was only reinstated after a SEC investigation found that he had used his shares to mask his enormous return from the company. He also personally repays any government grants he has received from Tesla, donating them to charity instead.
Musk’s immense tax contribution in 2019 is a prime example of how high earners should apply their wealth. By utilizing smart tax strategies and responsibly donating to worthy causes, wealthier individuals can minimize their own tax burden while positively contributing to society.
Tax Laws and Regulations
When it comes to taxes, laws and regulations vary from country to country. US tax laws, for instance, allow wealthier taxpayers to take advantage of various deductions and other strategic opportunities to reduce their tax burden. In some countries, such as the UK, there are special rates of tax on investments, which tax high earners on a sliding scale. Generally, however, the more income one earns, the higher their tax rate.
The US tax code did see some changes in 2018, given the passing of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Those changes included slashing the corporate tax rate from 35% to 21%, eliminating the personal exemption for taxpayers, and doubling the standard deduction for individual filers. The new law is estimated to have saved taxpayers an estimated US$110 billion in 2019, with high earners receiving the majority of the benefits.
Other Tax Obligations
In addition to federal and state income tax, payroll tax, which are collected by employers, remain a significant source of tax revenues. Employers withhold a portion of employees’ wages to pay for items such as Social Security, Medicare, and other payroll taxes. The total of these taxes, including the employer’s contribution, remains at 15.3% of an employee’s wages up to a certain threshold.
The US government also collects taxes on capital gains, which are the profits made from selling investments, such as stocks, bonds, or real estate. The capital gains tax rate generally varies from 0% to 20%, although there are certain exemptions available for long-term investments and for certain types of investment accounts.
Finally, the federal government collects estate tax from individuals or corporations transferring large amounts of wealth upon their death. Estate tax applies to estates worth more than a certain limit and is only applicable in some US states. Individuals and corporations are responsible for reporting their estate tax liabilities to the IRS.
Tax Avoidance and Tax Evasion
Having a proper tax strategy is essential for high earners and wealthy taxpayers. Tax avoidance and tax evasion, however, are two very different things. Tax avoidance involves taking advantage of loopholes and legal strategies to minimize one’s tax burden. This practice is generally acceptable, provided it is done within the bounds of the law. Tax evasion, on the other hand, is illegal and involves deliberately underreporting one’s income or claiming false deductions.
In 2019, the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) collected an estimated US$3.4 trillion in taxes from individuals and businesses. Tax evasion remains a pervasive problem, with the IRS estimating that it loses an estimated US$458 billion per year from underreported incomes and false deductions.
Private tax evasion can be considered a crime in the US, and it can result in the imposition of significant financial penalties. For wealthy individuals and corporations, it can also be a reputational risk and a source of financial loss.
Smart Strategies for Tax Savings
Wealthy individuals and CEOs, like Elon Musk, have access to certain deductions and other strategies that can be used to reduce their tax burden. By hiring a qualified tax professional or taking the time to research the law, high earners can avail of certain strategies to minimize their income tax obligations. Charitable giving, for instance, is one of the best strategies for lowering one’s taxable income, and it can also benefit a worthy cause in the process.
It is important to note, however, that taxpayers should always try to comply with laws and regulations when filing their taxes. While taking advantage of tax deductions and other savings opportunities is perfectly acceptable, taxpayers should avoid engaging in any illegal activities, as the consequences of tax evasion can be significant.
