Country A
United States
Top income tax: 37%
Corporate: 21%
VAT: 0% · CGT: 20%
VS
Country B
Bulgaria
Top income tax: 10%
Corporate: 10%
VAT: 20% · CGT: 10%
Full Tax Rate Comparison
| Tax Type | United States | Bulgaria | Lower Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top Income Tax | 37% | 10% | Bulgaria |
| Bottom Income Tax | 10% | 10% | Tie |
| Corporate Tax | 21% | 10% | Bulgaria |
| VAT / GST | 0% | 20% | United States |
| Capital Gains Tax | 20% | 10% | Bulgaria |
| Social Security (Emp) | 7.7% | 13.8% | United States |
| Dividend Tax | 23.8% | 5% | Bulgaria |
| Tax Treaties | 68 | 68 | United States |
Take-Home Pay Estimate
Illustration — €100,000 gross annual income
United States Take-Home
€68,300
Bulgaria Take-Home
€79,720
Annual Difference
+€11,420
Verdict
Overall Tax Burden
Bulgaria has a lower overall tax burden
Bulgaria scores lower on combined tax burden (10 vs 29). Top income tax: 10% vs 37% in United States. Corporate: 10% vs 21%. For high earners and entrepreneurs, Bulgaria can offer meaningful tax savings.
Tax System: Territorial vs Worldwide
| Factor | United States | Bulgaria |
|---|---|---|
| Territorial Taxation | No | No |
| Digital Nomad Visa | No | Yes |
| Wealth Tax | No | No |
| CFC Rules | No | Yes |
Special Regimes Available
| Country | Regime | Rate / Benefit | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| No major special regimes for these two countries | |||
Frequently Asked Questions
Which country has lower taxes: United States or Bulgaria?
United States has a top income tax rate of 37% and corporate tax of 21%. Bulgaria has 10% and 10% respectively. On €100k gross, estimated take-home is €68,300 in United States vs €79,720 in Bulgaria. Actual liability varies with deductions, residency rules, and individual circumstances.
Is United States or Bulgaria better for expats and digital nomads?
United States uses a worldwide tax system. Bulgaria uses a worldwide tax system. The best choice depends on income type, desired residency duration, and lifestyle preferences.
What is the corporate tax difference between United States and Bulgaria?
The statutory corporate tax rate is 21% in United States and 10% in Bulgaria. Effective rates can differ significantly due to deductions, loss carry-forwards, and R&D credits. Both countries may offer reduced rates or special regimes for SMEs or qualifying businesses.
Disclaimer: Rates shown are statutory rates for 2026. Effective rates vary with deductions and individual circumstances. Not tax advice.