[archie2]

I paid 45% of my income in taxes last year alone.

For comparison in my income bracket:

Ontario income tax rate: 12.16% Canada federal tax rate: 26% Employment Insurance and Social Security are deducted seperately and made up the rest of my deductions.

Connecticut state income tax rate: 5.50% US federal tax: 22%

Unless social security rates are worse than Canada, I don't see how your situation is possible.