What type of tax structure would likely increase tax burden on low-income individuals the most?

A regressive tax structure is one where the tax rate decreases as the taxable amount increases. This means that low-income individuals bear a heavier burden relative to their income compared to higher-income individuals since they pay a higher percentage of their earnings in taxes. For example, sales taxes and excise taxes on necessities such as food, clothing, or gasoline affect lower-income households more significantly because these households spend a larger portion of their income on such essentials.

In contrast, progressive taxes increase the tax rate as the income level rises, which generally alleviates the tax burden on low-income individuals. Fixed taxes do not vary with income and can be burdensome, but they do not disproportionately impact low-income individuals as much as regressive taxes. Luxury taxes target specific high-end goods and services, which typically do not affect low-income individuals directly.

Thus, regressive taxes increase the tax burden on low-income individuals the most, making this type of tax structure particularly impactful in discussions about equity in taxation.