Annie Lowrey identifies ‘time tax’ in US government bureaucracy

Journalist Annie Lowrey argues that excessive administrative red tape in government agencies functions as a ‘time tax’ on citizens, particularly those seeking essential benefits. In her book, ‘The Time Tax: How the Government Wastes Our Time — and How to Fix It’, Lowrey describes how the time, effort, and emotional strain required to navigate paperwork and long wait times act as barriers to accessing rights and services.

Lowrey highlights that new paperwork and work requirements have already removed millions of Americans from food assistance programs. She also cites the unemployment insurance system as an example where administrative hurdles prevent eligible individuals from collecting benefits, either because the applicants cannot navigate the complexity or because state agencies are overwhelmed by the volume of paperwork. Lowrey suggests that this burden contributes to a ‘low-trust society’ by eroding the relationship between the government and its citizens.