Governments large and small have begun to ratchet up taxes. As a result, expect a slower economic recovery and, possibly, an attempt to increase taxes on retirement accounts.

The tax man cometh.

Not only is it going to be individually painful in 2010, but the collective hit to consumers could be enough to stall the economic recovery as well.

US total tax burden by state

That's right: 10 years.

Now that I've got your attention, let's start with the short-term squeeze, move to the long-term, then see whether there are any strategies for keeping the tax man from our doors.

I got a firsthand demonstration of the tax squeeze about a week ago. I'm the treasurer for the cooperative that owns the building where I live in New York City. November is budget time,...