Abstract: The subject of this article is the tax system. Within the scope of the research, the author examines the elements of the tax system during the process of their creation and development in Russia. Functioning of any, even the most primitive state, is impossible without the tax system. In order to understand the essence of the tax system, it is necessary to trace back its evolution since it was created and up to the present time. The author of the article analyzes the development of the elements of the tax system at different stages of historical development of our country, from the times of Kievan Rus to the 90's of the last century. The author has used the following research methods: analysis and synthesis; theoretical analysis; grouping and systematization; and the graphical method. The results of the analysis has allowed the author to establish the fact that the elements of the tax system defined by the author are fundamental and have remained unchanged throughout centuries. Moreover, the tax system of modern Russia has the same problems and shortcomings that it had in the 17th-18th centuries.

Abstract: Abstract. The paper gives a comparative analysis of the Russian and German tax systems; reveals their similarities and differences. The main similarity is the fact that both systems are three-level systems, due to the federal form of state. The author analyzes the distribution of tax revenues among three levels and identifies their characteristics. The study also reviews the functions performed by taxes in Germany in the practical aspect. Special attention is given to the study of the income tax since currently this tax is being the topical issue discussed in the media. In the author’s opinion, in Russia a progressive income taxation of physical persons should be introduced. For analysis purposes, the author uses the following methods: analysis and synthesis, as well as a graphical method. The Russian personal income tax rate is 3.5 times less than the German rate and income tax progressivity is not applied. In addition, the income of physical persons in Germany is subject to at least four other taxes. Also, in Germany the property passing by way of donation is taxed. In Russia there are no such taxes. This fact proves that the taxation level of Russian residents is lower. In Russia the taxes are not allocated simultaneously into three budgets. In reality, most taxes are allocated between the two budget tiers.  

Abstract: The article analyzes the transformation of the main budget tax rates in Russia, such as VAT and income tax, with respect to their tax base. The tax rate does not indicate the actual level of tax burden on the taxpayer. In order to determine it, the tax rate should be considered in conjunction with the tax base. Determination of the tax base for VAT levied in foreign trade and in the domestic market under the Tax Code indicates that the tax rate significantly exceeds the rate claimed by the legislator for a given type of tax. The methodology used in the research includes analysis, synthesis as well as a graphical method. The author concludes that the VAT rate of 18% is not an indicator of the actual level of value added tax since Russia has moved away from the taxation of value added. Moreover, incorrectly determined tax base for levying VAT entails an error in calculating the income tax.