This paper uses findings from research carried out by Christian Aid partners to argue that for women in the informal sector in Ghana, the tax system is not accountable, responsive or fair. Women participants in the research reported that they were treated harshly by tax collectors, and that they were not often asked to show records of their accounts. There was low understanding of tax regulations and systems among the women. The paper ends with a series of recommendations for government, tax officials and civil society to help create more transparency within tax systems, greater public knowledge and awareness around tax, and to help build the capacity of tax officials.