Debt and Taxes!

Benjamin Franklin once said: “In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes.”

Of course, that statement is just as true today as it was centuries ago. Taxation is certainly not a new concept as governments need the revenue to keep the country’s financial matters in order.

Jamaica is in the same position of a number of other countries as it has tax dodgers.  These people are often gainfully employed but they refuse to pay taxes and similar allow the penalties to accumulate.

The deadlines for payment of taxes are heavily advertised in the media so there is no ignorance about when the taxes are due.  In fact, the date for the payment of income tax for self employed persons and companies is March 15th.  This date is a historic one since it is linked to the death of a famous character in Shakespeare’s play, ‘Julius Caesar’ where it was referred to as the ‘Ides of March’.

Tax Dodgers

Those who do not pay their taxes fall into two categories: those who can not pay and those who will not pay.  Those who can not pay are usually earning an income but they are unable to pay their taxes because they spend as much as they earn.  There is no provision made for putting aside the taxes owed so they are left with the issue of either going into debt and bankruptcy or not paying the tax.

Then of course there are the other type of non tax payers.  They firmly believe that there are better ways to use their money. As a result of that way of thinking, they hold on to their hard earned cash and refuse to pay.

They might console themselves into thinking that they can remain hidden forever but their actions will surface sooner rather than later.

Penalties

The worst part of being a tax dodger of course is being caught! So although going into debt is not the course of action, there needs to be a determined effort to bring everyone into the tax office to pay even a portion of their taxes.

The burden should not fall on the few who despite the financial pressure have to hand over their salaries for taxes.

Of course some people are of the opinion that taxes should not be paid because nothing is done to improve the standard of living, but that is another blog post. That’s my take, share your views below!

Teri Ann Renee Paisley

Gleaner online writer

Tags: taxes